In a significant development, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar declared on Monday that Pakistan is executing precise military operations against militant hideouts within Afghanistan, relying on verified intelligence data. This statement, disseminated through international media channels, underscores Pakistan's focused approach in combating terrorism emanating from Afghan territory.
Targeted Operations and Denial of Civilian Harm
Tarar emphasized that Pakistan's actions are strictly directed at terrorist infrastructure and their support networks, with no targeting of civilian areas in Afghanistan. He categorically dismissed reports from the Afghan Taliban government and the UN Mission in Afghanistan regarding civilian casualties, labeling them as unfounded. According to Tarar, the UN agency's information in Kabul is entirely dependent on the Taliban regime, which he argues compromises its accuracy.
Refuting Afghan Taliban Claims
The minister strongly refuted claims made by the spokesperson of the Afghan Ministry of Defense about victories against Pakistan on the battlefield, describing them as mere propaganda. He stated that the exaggerated figures presented by the Afghan Taliban are not worthy of serious consideration, highlighting Pakistan's commitment to factual reporting in its counter-terrorism efforts.
Nexus Between Afghan Taliban and Terrorist Groups
Tarar pointed to a concerning alliance, noting that joint attacks by the Afghan Taliban and the terrorist group Fitna al-Khawarij confirm a nexus between the Afghan Taliban government and multiple terrorist organizations operating from Afghan soil. He asserted that all such attacks have been met with prompt and effective responses from Pakistan, demonstrating the country's resolve to protect its borders and national security.
Ongoing Military Operations
Meanwhile, security sources report that the Pakistan Army is actively continuing retaliatory actions under Operation Ghazab Lil-Haq, targeting Afghan Taliban and Fitna al-Khawarij elements. In a recent operation, the army targeted an Afghan Taliban post near Shawal in South Waziristan, forcing militants to flee and destroying the post with explosives. Additionally, a successful strike completely demolished the ammunition depot at Shaheen Base in Paktika, further crippling terrorist capabilities.
These operations are part of a broader strategy to dismantle hideouts and military installations along the Pak-Afghan border, as Pakistan intensifies its efforts to curb cross-border terrorism and ensure regional stability.
