Pakistan has summoned the Afghan deputy head of mission to the Foreign Office after the February 16 suicide attack in Bajaur, which officials say was carried out by Fitna al-Khawarij and the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) using Afghan soil.
The Foreign Office handed over a strong protest letter, expressing serious concern over the continued use of Afghan territory for terrorist activities against Pakistan.
According to the Foreign Office spokesperson, 11 Pakistani soldiers were martyred in the Bajaur terrorist attack. The Foreign Ministry stated that Fitna al-Khawarij and the TTP leadership, which is allegedly based in Afghanistan, are operating unhindered from Afghan soil.
Pakistan conveyed its deep concern over the presence of banned TTP leadership in Afghanistan and termed the situation unacceptable.
Strong démarche handed to Afghan envoy
The Afghan deputy head of mission was formally summoned to the Foreign Office and given a strict démarche.
Officials emphasized that terrorists are carrying out operations freely from Afghan territory and that Pakistan has repeatedly raised this issue with the Afghan interim government.
Despite receiving assurances from Kabul on several occasions, Islamabad said no tangible, concrete, and verifiable steps have been taken to dismantle the terrorist infrastructure.
Pakistan demands immediate action
Pakistan has demanded immediate action from the Afghan Taliban regime against terrorist groups, including Fitna al-Khawarij and the TTP.
The Foreign Office insisted that verifiable action must be taken against terrorist leadership based in Afghanistan. It also urged the Afghan regime to take practical steps against terrorist networks operating from its soil.
Islamabad reiterated that there would be no compromise on national security.
Pakistan reserves right to act
The Foreign Office categorically informed Afghan authorities that Pakistan reserves the right to take action against elements associated with Fitna al-Khawarij and their facilitators wherever they are located.
Officials stressed that terrorists will be dealt with wherever they are, and all possible steps will be taken to protect Pakistani soldiers, citizens, and territorial integrity.
Pakistan reaffirmed that it will defend its borders and give a strong response to elements linked to terrorist outfits. The government reiterated its resolve to eliminate terrorism and ensure the safety of the country.
