The latest United Nations report has made startling revelations about the financial and logistical support extended by the Afghan Taliban to the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and its leadership, exposing Afghanistan’s continued role as a safe haven for global and regional terrorist groups.
According to the UN Monitoring Team, the Taliban regime in Kabul provides a monthly stipend of USD 50,500 to Noor Wali Mehsud, the TTP chief, who enjoys full sanctuary, resources, and operational freedom on Afghan soil. The report further noted that Mehsud and his faction possess advanced weapons and equipment left behind by U.S. forces after their withdrawal from Afghanistan.
The UN report also confirmed that the Taliban’s ties with Al-Qaeda remain intact and have become more active since taking power in 2021. It highlighted that Al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri’s killing in Kabul is undeniable proof of the group’s continued presence in Afghanistan. It added that militants cross into Pakistan’s Balochistan province through routes in Zabul, Wardak, Kandahar, Paktia, and Helmand, posing a direct threat to Pakistan’s internal security.
The report cited credible evidence linking Afghan-based militant groups to terrorist incidents inside Pakistan, including the Jaffer Express bombing and attacks on cantonment areas. Despite assurances under the Doha Peace Agreement that Afghan territory would not be used for terrorism or cross-border attacks, the report concluded that these commitments have not been upheld.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS) has reported a surge in terrorist incidents across Pakistan in recent months, underlining the regional security risks emanating from Afghan soil.
