ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday strongly condemned Afghanistan’s recent acts of aggression, reiterating Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to defending its sovereignty, national security, and regional peace.
The condemnation followed a statement by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), which said Pakistan Army repelled an unprovoked cross-border attack by Afghan Taliban fighters and Indian-sponsored Fitna al Khawarij militants. Precision strikes were carried out on Taliban camps and terrorist networks within Afghan territory, causing heavy losses to the attackers.
President Zardari criticized Kabul’s silence on India’s illegal occupation of Jammu and Kashmir, stating it betrayed the cause of oppressed Muslims. He said Pakistan rejects all “misleading stances” on Kashmir, reaffirming that the region remains a disputed territory as per international law and UN resolutions.
He further expressed concern over Afghanistan's soil being used to launch terrorist attacks on Pakistan, citing the documented presence of anti-Pakistan outfits including ISKP/Daesh and Khawarij factions. Zardari warned of a growing India-Afghanistan nexus that threatens regional stability and targets Pakistani civilians and troops.
Calling for immediate action, the president urged the Taliban government to dismantle all anti-Pakistan elements, emphasizing that fighting terrorism is a collective responsibility. He also reminded Kabul of Pakistan’s continued support in trade, transit, and humanitarian cooperation.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif echoed similar sentiments, praising the military’s swift response led by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. He said the armed forces had decisively neutralized enemy threats and shown Pakistan’s ability to defend every inch of its land.
Sharif emphasized that while Pakistan desires peace, any aggression will be met with full force. “Our defence is in capable hands,” he said, adding that the nation stands firmly behind its armed forces against any external provocation.
