Pakistan conducts anti-terror operations in Afghanistan

Lahore: The Foreign Office (FO) confirmed on Monday that Pakistan conducted “intelligence-based anti-terrorist operations” within Afghanistan's border regions, shortly after Kabul reported airstrikes on its territory resulting in eight fatalities.

The Foreign Office said that the operation targeted terrorists affiliated with the Hafiz Gul Bahadur Group, responsible for numerous terrorist attacks in Pakistan in collaboration with the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). These attacks have led to the deaths of civilians and law enforcement personnel, including the recent incident claiming seven Pakistani soldiers' lives in Mir Ali, North Waziristan.

The airstrikes followed President Asif Ali Zardari's declaration of retaliation for the soldiers' deaths, emphasizing Pakistan's resolve to defend its borders and territory against any aggression. The Hafiz Gul Bahadar group had claimed responsibility for the Mir Ali attack, with security officials noting their operations from the Afghan side, particularly in Khost.

These strikes coincide with increased communication between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban leadership. Pakistan's envoy in Kabul recently met with Mullah Shirin Akhund, the Taliban governor of southern Kandahar, indicating ongoing diplomatic engagements.

The FO reiterated Pakistan's longstanding concerns to the Afghan government regarding terrorist elements, including TTP, finding sanctuary in Afghanistan and launching attacks into Pakistan. Emphasizing respect for Afghanistan's sovereignty, Pakistan consistently advocated for dialogue and cooperation to address shared security challenges.

Expressing dismay over certain Afghan authorities' support for TTP, the FO urged a reconsideration of such policies, highlighting Pakistan's historical support for Afghanistan.

It underscored the collective threat posed by groups like TTP to regional peace and affirmed Pakistan's commitment to collaborative counterterrorism efforts.

Pakistan reaffirmed its dedication to finding joint solutions to combat terrorism and prevent any strain on bilateral relations with Afghanistan.