Following recent terrorist attacks in Islamabad and Waziristan, Pakistan has issued a warning of potential operations against targets inside Afghanistan. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif accused the Afghan Taliban of providing shelter to armed groups responsible for attacks in Pakistan and stated that cross-border action cannot be ruled out.
On Tuesday (11 November), Pakistani media outlet Geo News reported the information. The incidents have created significant tension in Pakistan, a nuclear-armed country in South Asia.
Speaking on a Geo News programme, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif dismissed the Taliban government’s condemnation of the attacks as “unconvincing”. He stated, “Groups sheltered by the Taliban repeatedly carry out attacks against us.” He also expressed doubt over the effectiveness of discussions with the Afghan Taliban government, noting that while Kabul could prevent terrorism in Pakistan, the messages of the attacks in Islamabad originated from there.
The recent suicide bombing in Islamabad killed at least 12 people and injured over 30. In response, Asif posted, “We are effectively in a state of war. Those who think the Pakistani military is only fighting at the borders will have their eyes opened by this suicide attack in Islamabad.”
He added that the fight against terrorism is a “nationwide struggle” and that the sacrifices of the military provide a sense of security to the nation. He warned that if India or Afghanistan acted aggressively, Pakistan would respond in kind. He emphasised that Pakistan will never initiate aggression, but any attack on it will be met with a firm response.
Addressing journalists in the capital, Asif said the Islamabad attack sent a clear message: “All regions of Pakistan are within our reach.” He stressed that terrorism will not be tolerated anywhere—whether at the border or in cities—and every attack will receive a strong and decisive response.
GLIVE/TSN