Pakistan has carried out precision strikes against militant infrastructure inside Afghanistan based on verified intelligence and reserves the right to take all necessary measures in self-defence, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said.

He stated that 37 locations in Kabul, Nangarhar, Paktika and other areas were targeted with extreme caution, adding that operations were directed solely against militant elements and the Taliban regime, and that civilian populations were not targeted.

According to the foreign minister, Pakistan possesses concrete evidence of terrorism originating from Afghan territory. He said attacks on 53 locations across 15 sectors along the border were unacceptable, and that the operation codenamed “Ghazab lil Haq” was conducted against Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and other militant groups, resulting in the destruction of their hideouts and camps.

Dar emphasized that Pakistan seeks peaceful neighbourly relations with Afghanistan and has offered 4,500 scholarships for Afghan students. Islamabad has asked Kabul only to ensure that its territory is not used for attacks against Pakistan. He added that three visits to Afghanistan were made last year, during which economic cooperation, trade and other key issues were discussed.

He said diplomatic efforts through talks in Qatar and Istanbul failed to yield results, while Pakistan is continuing to engage friendly countries to brief them on the situation and to support efforts aimed at de-escalation.

Addressing wider regional developments, Dar said Pakistan supports peace efforts in Gaza and has called for humanitarian assistance to be provided to its population. He reiterated that Pakistan backs dialogue and diplomacy as the primary means to resolve disputes and stressed that all states must respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of others under international law.

He also noted that Pakistan maintains strong relations with China, the United States and other partner countries, adding that the current regional environment remains highly sensitive and that Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts are focused on reducing tensions.