In global politics, relations between neighbouring countries are always sensitive. However, when issues such as border security, terrorism, and regional stability become intertwined with these relations, the situation grows even more complex. The relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan reflects this very reality. In recent years, the rise in terrorist incidents in Pakistan has not only challenged national security but has also raised serious concerns about peace and stability in the region. Pakistan has consistently maintained that recent terrorist attacks are being planned and supported from Afghan soil, and that terrorist organisations based there are involved in carrying out operations against Pakistan.
Pakistan has fought a long and arduous war against terrorism. Large-scale military operations were conducted in the tribal areas, thousands of lives were sacrificed, and an atmosphere of peace was restored in the country.
However, in recent times, terrorist incidents in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan have created new concerns. According to security agencies, the elements involved in these attacks operate from safe havens across the border and then retreat into Afghanistan. Pakistan maintains that the banned organisation Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has safe sanctuaries in Afghanistan. These elements are targeting Pakistani security forces, police personnel, and civilians. Islamabad has repeatedly urged the Afghan authorities to ensure that their territory is not used against Pakistan. The fencing along the Durand Line between Pakistan and Afghanistan was initiated to prevent illegal crossings and infiltration by terrorists. Pakistan’s position is that the purpose of border fencing and the establishment of check posts is solely to protect national security, not to show aggression toward any neighbouring country. On the other hand, certain Afghan circles do not recognize this border, which continues to cause tension.
Border clashes and incidents of firing are also viewed in this context. Pakistan asserts that when terrorists launch attacks from across the border, it has the right to take action to protect its sovereignty and its people.
Pakistan asserts that when terrorists launch attacks from across the border, it has the right to take action to protect its sovereignty and its people.
Recently, Pakistan carried out limited airstrikes against terrorist hideouts located on Afghan soil. Pakistani officials stated that the operation was based on credible intelligence and targeted only those elements involved in terrorist activities inside Pakistan.Under international law, every state has the right to self-defense. According to Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, if a state faces an external threat to its security, it may take defensive measures. Pakistan invoked this principle, arguing that when continuous attacks are launched from Afghan territory and the relevant authorities fail to take effective action, it must act to protect its citizens.
Authorities in Afghanistan protested against Pakistan’s airstrikes, calling them a violation of their sovereignty. However, Pakistan clarified that its objective was not to harm the Afghan people but to target specific terrorist elements.
It cannot be denied that peace in the region is in the interest of both Pakistan and Afghanistan. Afghanistan has been plagued by instability for the past four decades. The Soviet war, civil war, post-9/11 U.S. intervention, and recent political changes have all contributed to ongoing instability in the country.Until a strong and effective governmental structure is established in Afghanistan, it will remain easier for terrorist organizations to find space there. The international community also agrees that terrorism is not the problem of one country alone but a global threat. If Afghan soil is being used against another country, it poses a serious danger to regional peace.Pakistan is among the countries most affected by terrorism. Thousands of soldiers, police officers, and civilians have sacrificed their lives. The economy has suffered billions of dollars in losses, investment has been affected, and the social fabric has weakened. Pakistan maintains that it has always supported the Afghan people, provided refuge to millions of Afghan refugees, and stood by them in difficult times. Despite this, if actions are carried out against Pakistan from Afghan territory, it is deeply painful.
A lasting solution to the issue lies not only in military action but also in diplomatic, political, and security cooperation. Intelligence sharing, effective border management, and a joint strategy between Pakistan and Afghanistan are essential.Both countries must take each other’s concerns seriously. If Afghanistan takes effective action against terrorist groups operating on its soil, Pakistan will have no need to conduct cross-border operations.The presence of terrorist elements in Afghanistan and recent attacks in Pakistan have made the regional situation extremely sensitive. Pakistan’s airstrikes should be viewed in this context as measures taken to protect its citizens and defend national security. However, it is also true that war and tension are not permanent solutions to any problem.It is essential for both brotherly Islamic countries to choose the path of cooperation rather than confrontation. Mutual trust, diplomatic engagement, and a joint counterterrorism strategy can lead the region toward sustainable peace. If Afghanistan clears its territory of terrorist elements and Pakistan continues responsible diplomacy, improvement in the situation is certainly possible.
Peace in the region is not only a matter for Pakistan or Afghanistan but for all of South Asia. Therefore, the need of the hour is to prioritize wisdom over emotion, dialogue over confrontation, and practical measures over blame games so that future generations may breathe in a peaceful and stable region.
However, if despite all this Afghanistan does not refrain from aggression, Pakistan retains the right to defend itself. In defence of the homeland, the soldiers of the Pakistan Army remain vigilant at all times, and by the time these lines are published, it is certain that the Pakistan Army will have given a firm and satisfactory response to Afghanistan.
The writer is an old Aitchisonian who believes in freedom of expression, a freelance columnist, entrepreneur and social activist.