The Prime Minister's Adviser on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah on Thursday made a firm statement regarding Pakistan’s stance toward Afghanistan, declaring that the country’s demand is “clear, lawful, and non-negotiable".
“Pakistan has a direct demand according to international law,” Sanaullah said, emphasizing that Afghanistan must ensure its land is not used for terrorism against Pakistan. He added, “We have presented evidence that cannot be denied by anyone.”
'Afghanistan should stop this and create a mechanism'
The former interior minister urged the Afghan authorities to “stop these activities and establish a proper mechanism” to prevent the use of their soil for militant operations targeting Pakistan.
“This is a one-line demand. There is no flexibility in it,” Sanaullah said, underscoring that Pakistan’s position is firm and based on legitimate security concerns.
Afghanistan a brotherly Islamic nation
Despite the strong tone, Rana Sanaullah reiterated that Pakistan still views Afghanistan as a brotherly Islamic country. He acknowledged, “Pakistan has served, hosted, and obeyed them for 40 years,” referring to the decades of Afghan refugee support and cooperation between the two nations.
However, he expressed concern that the current Afghan rulers have adopted a troubling stance. “The group in power in Afghanistan is the Fitna al-Khawarij, who are hesitant to get involved with India,” he remarked, pointing to growing external influence over Afghan policy.
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Sanaullah claimed that India is exerting pressure on Afghanistan’s current leadership and even offering money and facilities to sustain anti-Pakistan policies. “India is inciting them to continue this policy,” he said, accusing New Delhi of manipulating the situation to destabilize Pakistan.
'Will protect ourselves — there is no other option'
The senator emphasized Pakistan’s right to self-defense, asserting that the armed forces and military leadership are fully prepared to act.
“We will protect ourselves from terrorists — there is no other option for us,” he declared. Sanaullah praised the country’s military leadership, saying they have “taught them a lesson once before” and are ready to do so again if necessary.
He continued, “Our forces have already conveyed that if they (Afghanistan) do not take responsibility for keeping our borders safe, we will secure this guarantee ourselves.”
Pakistan may establish 'buffer zone' if needed
In a significant statement, Rana Sanaullah revealed that Pakistan is prepared to establish a buffer zone along the border to ensure national security.
“We will do whatever is necessary to secure our borders,” he said. “A decision has already been made. Our military leadership is completely clear about this — there is no ambiguity.”
He concluded by saying that the only remaining question is whether Afghanistan will cooperate or Pakistan will have to act independently to implement its decision.
