ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal has issued a firm warning that Pakistan’s security operations will remain active until conclusive guarantees eliminate the threat of terrorism from Afghanistan.
The minister’s statement comes amid escalating cross-border tensions and a surge in militant attacks inside Pakistan, which authorities attribute to groups operating from Afghan soil.
Iqbal emphasized that Islamabad has shown considerable restraint over recent years, repeatedly urging the Afghan Taliban administration to curb terrorist activities directed against Pakistan.
Despite diplomatic efforts and multiple demarches, the concerns have not been adequately addressed, leading to a rise in incidents that have claimed numerous lives among Pakistani security personnel and civilians.
Pakistan has faced a renewed wave of terrorism since the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan in 2021, with the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) gaining safe havens across the border.
Official data indicates an exponential increase in attacks originating from Afghanistan, including high-profile incidents in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and other border regions.
In recent months, deadly assaults in districts such as Bajaur and Bannu have killed dozens of soldiers, prompting strong retaliatory measures.
The minister highlighted Pakistan’s historical sacrifices for Afghanistan, including support during conflicts and humanitarian aid, yet the country now bears the cost through persistent instability.
Iqbal reiterated that Afghan soil must not serve as a base for exporting violence, echoing longstanding demands from Islamabad for verifiable actions against outfits like the TTP.
Pakistan’s position aligns with international calls for the Taliban to honor commitments made to the global community, including preventing terrorism from their territory.
Recent military responses, including precision strikes on alleged militant camps in provinces like Paktika, Nangarhar and Khost, reflect this resolve.
These operations have reportedly inflicted heavy losses on terrorist networks, though Afghanistan has contested the claims and accused Pakistan of civilian casualties.
The minister’s remarks underscore that operations will not cease prematurely, as partial measures have failed to deliver lasting security.
Pakistan reserves the right to self-defense under international law, particularly Article 51 of the UN Charter, when facing ongoing threats from across the border.
Analysts note that the TTP’s resurgence has been fueled by impunity in Afghanistan, with leadership elements reportedly coordinating attacks from there.
Border clashes have intensified, with tit-for-tat exchanges risking broader escalation between the two neighbors.
Diplomatic channels remain open, but Islamabad insists on concrete, verifiable steps rather than verbal assurances.
The foreign office has repeatedly protested to Afghan representatives following major incidents, demanding accountability for harboring terrorists.
Iqbal’s statement serves as a clear message to Kabul that patience is limited and decisive action is required to halt the bloodshed.
Security experts point out that without firm guarantees, including dismantling TTP infrastructure and extraditing key figures, the cycle of violence will persist.
Pakistan’s armed forces have conducted multiple operations in response to the threat, demonstrating capability to target hideouts effectively.
The human cost remains high, with thousands of lives lost in the broader fight against terrorism over the past two decades.
The minister called for a holistic approach, combining military pressure with diplomatic engagement to achieve a terrorism-free border.
Regional stability hinges on addressing this core issue, as unchecked militancy affects not only Pakistan but the wider area.
Iqbal’s declaration reinforces Pakistan’s commitment to protecting its sovereignty and citizens from external threats.
Until binding and enforceable guarantees are in place, operations will continue unabated to neutralize the menace at its source.
The international community has been urged to support Pakistan’s position and press for compliance from Afghan authorities.
As tensions mount, the path forward depends on meaningful cooperation to end the sponsorship of cross-border terrorism.
Pakistan remains resolute in its objective to secure lasting peace along its western frontier.