Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said on Tuesday that Pakistan-Afghanistan tensions could escalate after deadly attacks in Islamabad and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. At least 12 people were killed and 36 injured in a suicide blast in the capital. The explosion happened as major international events were taking place in Islamabad. Meanwhile, security forces launched a clearance operation in Wana against militants hiding inside a college.
Asif stated that Pakistan might strike terrorist sanctuaries inside Afghanistan if threats continued. He said Pakistan was “compelled” to respond after the latest attacks. According to him, the Afghan Taliban were not sincere in promoting peace with Pakistan. He accused Kabul’s leadership of being divided and influenced by India. The minister called the recent attacks a warning of further aggression from Afghan soil.
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He explained that thousands of militants had entered Pakistan from Afghanistan over the past year. Around 55 percent of those killed in recent operations were Afghans, he said. Asif insisted that Pakistan did not host any militant sanctuaries. However, he warned that the country would respond strongly to any cross-border attacks. “If they disturb our peace, we will respond in kind,” he added.
The minister confirmed that Pakistan had already chased militants into Afghan territory in “hot pursuit.” He said the government could increase these aerial and ground operations soon. Still, he emphasized that Pakistan’s focus remained on economic recovery and national stability. “We want peace in our country, not war,” Asif said firmly.
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In his closing remarks, Asif assured that Pakistan sought friendly ties with neighbors but would not compromise on security. He said any aggression would be met with equal force. The government vowed to protect the nation and strengthen its defense against future threats, aiming to reduce Pakistan-Afghanistan tensions and ensure lasting peace.