- The US reiterated its stand that the Taliban should curb terrorism.
- Pakistan has blamed Afghanistan for harboring TTP.
- Top army officers also express concern against Afghanistan.
The United States reiterated that the Afghan Taliban must ensure that their country is not used for terrorist attacks as Pakistan accuses the neighboring country of harboring the hardline Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
“It is the responsibility of the Taliban to prevent this […] US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said during a press briefing, Afghanistan will be prevented from being used as a safe haven to launch terrorist attacks.
The development came as top Pakistani army officials said that the safe haven and freedom of action available to terrorists of the banned TTP and other similar groups in Afghanistan is one of the major factors affecting the security of Islamabad.
At the 258th Corps Commanders’ Conference (CCC) chaired by Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir, the Army said that TTP has gained access to latest weapons due to its sanctuaries in Afghanistan.
Terrorist attacks have increased in Pakistan since the TTP ended its ceasefire agreement with Islamabad in November last year, with the armed forces stepping up efforts against terrorists.
Last week, the Pakistan Army said it was seriously concerned that terrorists have found safe havens in the neighboring country and threatened an “effective response” after two attacks killed 12 of its soldiers. Was.
Pakistan has witnessed an increase in terrorist attacks after the Afghan Taliban returned to power in August 2021 and called on the interim rulers to take decisive action against terrorists including the TTP responsible for cross-border attacks.
A statistical report released by independent think tank Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) revealed that terrorist activities in the country have increased by 79% during the first half of 2023.
In an interview with BBC Pashto, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, in response to Defense Minister Khawaja Asif’s remarks that Afghanistan was not fulfilling its obligations under the Doha Agreement, said that he had made peace with Islamabad. The accord has not been signed, causing concern among Pakistanis. Leader.
