Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif said Tuesday that terrorists operating from safe havens in Afghanistan pose a serious challenge to Pakistan’s security.
Speaking on a private TV channel, Asif highlighted differing causes of terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, noting Balochistan’s issues stem from decades-old grievances.
Asif expressed concerns over internal divisions within Afghanistan, saying the Afghan Taliban struggle to control the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
He emphasized Pakistan’s desire for peace in Afghanistan to prevent spillover into Balochistan.
The minister called for trust-building in Balochistan to address long-standing political issues, citing progress until 2018 before the situation deteriorated.
He urged Balochistan’s political leaders to work toward peace.
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Asif also dismissed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s stance on Kashmir as misleading, reaffirming Pakistan’s position. Additionally, he criticized former Prime Minister Imran Khan for not speaking out against terrorism, calling his silence on national security issues suspect.
Pakistan continues to grapple with terrorism and regional instability, with Afghanistan’s role remaining a key concern.
