ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has described the country’s long-standing policy of hosting Afghan refugees as the most serious mistake in its 78-year history.
In a statement shared on X, Asif criticized claims by the Afghan Taliban that Pakistan targeted a drug rehabilitation hospital in Kabul. He rejected the allegation and accused the group of being responsible for attacks on mosques, civilians, markets, and schools.
The minister further alleged that drug trafficking serves as a major source of income for the Taliban and accused them of turning against Pakistan despite decades of support. He said the country had provided refuge to multiple generations of Afghans and even stood against global powers on their behalf.
Asif added that, instead of honoring commitments, the group has continued hostile actions and financial demands, calling their behavior ungrateful and harmful to Pakistan’s interests.
