Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has warned that Pakistan will no longer tolerate cross-border terrorism originating from Afghan soil, urging Kabul to dismantle militant safe havens or face consequences.
Speaking in the National Assembly, Asif said a high-level Pakistani delegation may soon visit Afghanistan to directly convey Islamabad’s concerns. “Cross-border attacks are unacceptable. If action is not taken, collateral damage cannot be ruled out,” he cautioned, adding that patience had run out after repeated provocations.
The defence minister revealed that Pakistani officials had previously informed Afghan authorities that around 6,000 to 7,000 militants were operating from their territory. Despite multiple rounds of talks, no concrete steps were taken to eliminate these sanctuaries. He also alleged that the Afghan government once sought financial assistance in exchange for relocating these groups, but offered no guarantees that attacks would stop.
Asif stressed that Pakistan desires peaceful and cooperative relations with Afghanistan, but mutual respect and responsibility are essential. “We respect Afghanistan’s sovereignty and expect the same. Our stance is not confrontational; it’s about our legitimate security concerns,” he said in a separate interview.
He reiterated that Pakistan’s issue is not with the Afghan people but with groups using Afghan soil to attack Pakistan. “Every day, our soldiers and civilians come under attack. If this continues, it’s not how neighbours behave,” he remarked.
Asif also addressed internal unity, urging all political parties and provincial governments to stand behind the armed forces. “There can be no ambiguity, you are either with Pakistan or with the terrorists,” he said.
The National Assembly suspended regular business to pay tribute to the martyrs of recent operations in Orakzai, reaffirming the country’s resolve to eradicate terrorism through unity and determination.
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