Terrorism is 'red line': Pak tells Afghan as it warns of action against cross-border threats

Islamabad, Pakistan has firmly stated its right to take necessary action against cross-border terror threats, emphasizing that terrorism is a red line and cannot be compromised due to the Taliban regime's inaction. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting accused the Afghan Taliban leadership of failing to address militancy originating from Afghan soil and instead blaming Islamabad for the deteriorating relations.

The Afghan Taliban spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, claimed that Pakistan's unwillingness to resolve tensions through dialogue and its "wrong policies" hinder conflict resolution. He also stated that Afghanistan is not responsible for the counterterrorism issues raised by Pakistan. Pakistan warned that it will not tolerate terrorist sanctuaries on its borders that endanger its security or allow its people to become targets of terrorism originating from Afghanistan.

The Taliban regime's persistent failure to address terrorism emanating from Afghan soil remains the main obstacle to normal relations, the statement emphasized. Pakistan reiterated that its security would not be held hostage to the Afghan Taliban's inaction, evasions, or misplaced priorities, and reserved the right to take all necessary measures to eliminate threats to its national security, as per international law.

The two neighbors' relations have been strained due to Islamabad's allegations that militant groups, including Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, operate from Afghan territory. The Afghan Taliban has consistently denied these allegations, claiming that Afghanistan does not allow its territory to be used against other countries. Border clashes and accusations over cross-border militancy have further deteriorated bilateral ties.