Despite persistent concerns from the United States, G7 nations, and regional powers, the Taliban continues to reject claims that terrorist groups are active within Afghanistan’s borders.
Taliban spokesperson Hamidullah Fitrat told state media that since their takeover, security has been fully restored and “all armed groups and opposition movements eliminated.” He dismissed accusations of ongoing terrorist activity as “baseless,” insisting that Afghanistan “is not a threat to any country.”
Addressing fears about illegal migration linked to cross-border terrorism, Fitrat described it as a global issue needing international cooperation and called on the world to share responsibility in tackling the problem.
His comments came after a London summit of special envoys from 13 countries; including the US, UK, France, Germany, Canada, Japan, and others, and the European Union. The delegates expressed serious concerns about security threats emerging from Afghanistan, the rise in cross-border migration, and stressed the need for an inclusive Afghan government.
Regional neighbors such as China, Russia, Iran, and Pakistan have also raised alarms. Pakistan’s UN envoy recently reported that over 20 militant groups; including the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), ISIS, al-Qaeda, Baloch separatists, and the East Turkestan Islamic Movement; operate in Afghanistan. Additionally, Afghan militants are reportedly joining forces with TTP fighters, as many terrorists neutralized in recent operations have been identified as Afghan nationals. A joint regional statement also highlighted concerns over Jaish al-Adl, an insurgent group targeting Iran.
Nevertheless, the Taliban steadfastly denies these warnings, insisting Afghanistan poses no threat beyond its borders, a stance at odds with the growing unease shared by the international community.
