ISLAMABAD: Amid escalating tensions along the Pakistan–Afghanistan border, Fazlur Rehman, chief of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F), has called for restraint and immediate diplomatic engagement to prevent further deterioration in bilateral relations.
The senior cleric acknowledged that Pakistan’s security concerns are valid, particularly regarding militant groups such as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Hafiz Gul Bahadur’s faction, and the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), which Islamabad alleges are operating from Afghan territory. However, he emphasized that Afghanistan’s sovereignty and internal challenges must also be taken into account.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman warned that emotional reactions from either side could aggravate the situation and further strain ties. He urged both governments to adopt a balanced and responsible approach grounded in mutual interests, credible security arrangements, and internationally accepted norms.
He stressed that sustained diplomatic efforts could offer a long-term solution, cautioning that unilateral military measures risk deepening the crisis. The JUI-F chief appealed for patience and restraint, calling for an immediate ceasefire and expressing hope that regional stakeholders and peace-seeking nations would support diplomatic initiatives.
His remarks come as Pakistan continues military operations under “Operation Ghazab Lil Haq.” Pakistani forces have conducted airstrikes targeting key installations in Kabul, Kandahar, and Paktia following what officials described as unprovoked cross-border aggression.
During a press briefing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry stated that Pakistani forces had repelled insurgents at 53 locations along the border while taking measures to avoid civilian casualties.
According to the military, 274 Taliban fighters have been killed and over 400 injured so far. Officials reported that 73 border posts were destroyed, 18 were taken into control, and 115 tanks used by insurgents were eliminated during the engagements.
Lt Gen Chaudhry said the operation remains ongoing and is progressing under the supervision of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, with authorities claiming that objectives are being achieved.
Meanwhile, members of the international community have also urged both Islamabad and Kabul to exercise restraint and pursue dialogue to de-escalate the crisis.
