Pakistan has successfully conducted intelligence-based airstrikes targeting seven terrorist facilities in Afghanistan’s Nangarhar, Paktika, and Khost provinces, belonging to the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and Islamic State Khorasan Province. More than 80 militants were eliminated in these operations. Concurrently, Pakistan’s security forces carried out a precision operation in Pishin, neutralizing a suicide attacker and five militants affiliated with Fitna-al-Khawarij, reflecting Pakistan’s continued vigilance against terrorism across its borders.
These recent operations hold exceptional significance in the context of the evolving security environment in the region, the delicate nature of Pakistan-Afghanistan relations, and Pakistan’s ongoing struggle against terrorism. The TTP and ISIS-K have posed a severe threat to Pakistan’s internal security for years, targeting not only security forces but also mosques, imambaras, markets, and public spaces in attempts to spread fear and disrupt societal stability. Recent months have seen a surge in suicide attacks and bombings, resulting in the deaths of numerous civilians and security personnel.
Evidence indicates that the planning and facilitation of these attacks often originate from cross-border networks, with elements exploiting Afghan territory for operations against Pakistan. The interim government in Afghanistan, self-styled as the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, has been repeatedly urged by Pakistan to prevent the use of its territory for hostile activities. Pakistan emphasizes that when a state fails to restrain actors on its soil from targeting neighboring countries, the affected state retains the right to defend its citizens a principle enshrined under international law.
The historical context underscores the complexity of Pakistan-Afghanistan relations. From the Soviet era to the post-9/11 global conflicts, Afghanistan has often been a theatre of external interference, with its instability directly impacting Pakistan. The influx of millions of Afghan refugees, proliferation of arms and narcotics in border regions, and empowerment of extremist groups have all affected Pakistan’s internal security. Pakistan has consistently supported reconciliation efforts in Afghanistan, facilitated negotiations, and urged the international community not to isolate the country, yet the on-ground reality remains challenging.
Following the Doha Agreement and the withdrawal of U.S. forces, hopes for stability and reduced cross-border militancy were high. However, extremist factions have exploited the changed circumstances, using Afghan territory as safe havens. Pakistan has repeatedly highlighted that these sanctuaries, if left unchecked, threaten both Pakistan and Afghanistan, as the presence of non-state armed groups undermines governance and security.
The recent airstrikes were based on precise intelligence, with carefully selected targets to minimize civilian casualties. Pakistan remains committed to a dual-track approach—military precision complemented by sustained diplomatic engagement—to prevent misunderstandings and escalation while ensuring national security.
Pakistan has borne extraordinary sacrifices in the two-decade-long war against terrorism. Thousands of security personnel and civilians have lost their lives, the economy has suffered billions in losses, and investment climates have been affected. Operations such as Zarb-e-Azb and Radd-ul-Fasaad significantly weakened terrorist networks, yet complete eradication remains a work in progress. Terrorism, with its evolving tactics, requires constant vigilance.
Beyond military action, Pakistan recognizes the importance of addressing the ideological, social, and economic roots of extremism. Providing youth with education, employment opportunities, and constructive engagement is essential to counter radical narratives. Initiatives such as the National Action Plan must move beyond paper and become effective frameworks to curb financing, prevent the re-emergence of banned organizations under new names, and strengthen the judicial process for prosecuting terrorists.
At the international level, Pakistan continues to advocate for accountability, highlighting cross-border terrorism originating from Afghan territory at forums including the United Nations. Sustainable peace in Afghanistan requires verifiable action against terrorist groups, alongside measures to prevent economic and diplomatic isolation that could create space for extremist elements.
Cross-border security tensions affect ordinary citizens, trade, and mutual trust. Pakistan stresses a balanced strategy that combines decisive action against terrorists with efforts to maintain constructive engagement with Afghanistan. National security is paramount, but so is the promotion of regional stability, cooperation, and lasting peace.
Pakistan remains committed to protecting its citizens, neutralizing terrorist threats, and ensuring that extremist ideologies are countered not just militarily but intellectually and socially. The ultimate objective is a Pakistan free of terrorism, contributing to a peaceful and stable region for future generations.
