No terror links of Afghan refugees in Pakistan: US

Washington: U.S. National Security Council spokesperson, John F. Kirby, stated that there is no evidence that Afghan refugees are involved in terrorist activities in Pakistan.

During the press conference, John Kirby was questioned about Pakistan’s stance on the impact of Afghan refugees on the country’s security.

Kirby responded, "We have not found any indication that Afghan refugees in Pakistan or near the border have been involved in terrorist acts. We are thankful for Pakistan's hospitality in providing a safe place for the displaced Afghans.”

He further added that “We will continue to collaborate with Pakistan in addressing the real threats of terrorism and challenges related to counterterrorism."

On the other hand, Matthew Miller, spokesperson for the U.S. State Department remarks that it is the Taliban’s responsibility to prevent Afghanistan from being used as a home for terrorists.

Miller was questioned about the U.S. view on the elimination of terrorist hideouts in Afghanistan by Pakistani commanders, particularly referring to the refugee shelters.

While refraining from making specific comments, Miller stated, "I won't make a specific comment on that, but I can say that we have made it clear that it is the responsibility of the Taliban to prevent Afghanistan from being used as a safe haven for terrorists."

It is worth noting that these statements from U.S. officials come after Army Chief General Qasim Munir's remarks at a commanders' conference on July 15.

Where he mentioned that "Militant sanctuaries, including those of banned TTP and other terrorist groups, are present in neighboring countries, and their freedom of action, along with access to the latest weaponry, is affecting Pakistan's security."

Prior to this, on July 15, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif had stated on Twitter that around 50-60 million Afghan refugees have sought refuge in Pakistan for the past 40-50 years, but in contrast, terrorists shedding Pakistani blood continue to operate from this land with links to Afghanistan.

He emphasized that the Taliban government in Afghanistan does not address the rights of neighboring countries and is not bound by the Doha Agreement.

افغانستان ھمسایہ اور برادر ملک ھونے کا حق نہیں ادا کر رہا اور نہ ھی دوہہ معاہدے کی پاسداری کر رہا ھے. 50/60 لاکھ افغانوں کو تمامتر حقوق کیساتھ پاکستان میں 40/50 سال پناہ میسر ھے. اسکے بر عکس پاکستانیوں کا خون بہانے والے دھشت گردوں کو افغان سر زمین پہ پناہ گائیں میسر ھیں. یہ صورت…

— Khawaja M. Asif (@KhawajaMAsif) July 15, 2023