ISLAMABAD: Defense Minister Khawaja Asif hinted at potential operations in Afghanistan in response to recent terrorism incidents in Pakistan.
Speaking on a private TV program, Khawaja Asif stated that Pakistan will not ignore the rising wave of terrorism. He warned that if safe havens for terrorists in Afghanistan continue to exist, Pakistan will take strong retaliatory action.
He added that mere condemnations or expressions of regret by the Afghan Taliban are meaningless. “Terrorists operating from Afghan safe havens continue to attack us. Most recent attacks involve Afghan militants, and there are no terrorist hideouts in Pakistan,” he said.
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Referring to a Pakistan Army operation at Wana Cadet College, he said that “by Allah’s mercy, cadets’ lives were saved during the operation.”
On India, Khawaja Asif said that New Delhi is using Afghanistan as a route to act aggressively against Pakistan. “No one should have the misconception that our neighbor’s hostile intentions are hidden. We remain on high alert and are ready to respond,” he added.
He further remarked that trust in verbal assurances from Afghan Taliban is impossible. “If friendly countries want to mediate, that is welcome, but everyone knows India is behind these actions,” he said.
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The defense minister also claimed that terrorists receive funding from the Indian consulate in Afghanistan. He stated that Pakistan will explore all available diplomatic options regarding Afghanistan.