Pakistan will continue cross-border strikes until Afghan Taliban take verifiable action against militant groups, senior security official says.
Pakistan will continue its ongoing cross-border security operations until the Afghan Taliban government takes “verifiable and concrete action” against militant groups operating from Afghan territory, a senior Pakistani security official said during a media briefing on Monday.
The official stated that Islamabad’s position is clear: the Afghan Taliban must choose whether to stand with Pakistan or with armed groups accused of carrying out attacks inside Pakistani territory.
“Operations will not stop until there are credible assurances on the ground that facilitation of these elements has ceased,” the official said, adding that there is “no timeline pressure” on Pakistan’s side.
Focus on Militant Infrastructure
According to the briefing, Pakistani forces are targeting what were described as terrorist safe havens, logistical networks, and launch pads used to plan and execute attacks against Pakistani civilians and security personnel.
The official said that more than 180 checkpoints had been dismantled and over 30 strategic locations brought under control during the course of the operation.
Pakistan maintains that the strikes are limited in scope and directed only at specific infrastructure linked to militant activity, rejecting accusations of indiscriminate targeting.
“These are defensive actions in response to sustained terrorist attacks,” the official said.
No Dispute With Afghan Public
The security official emphasized that Pakistan’s actions are not directed against the Afghan population.
“We have no disagreement with the Afghan people. Our operations are focused solely on those involved in terrorism against Pakistan,” the official stated.
Islamabad also rejected suggestions that it seeks to influence Afghanistan’s internal political structure, calling any change in governance an internal Afghan matter.
Allegations of Disinformation
During the briefing, the official alleged that certain accounts linked to the Afghan Taliban and their supporters were spreading misinformation regarding the operation.
All claims and counterclaims, the official said, should be independently verified.
Pakistan’s Position on Iran
Addressing regional developments, the official said Pakistan is pursuing what it described as a “balanced foreign policy” regarding Iran and broader Middle East tensions.
Islamabad has expressed concern over recent developments but reiterated its desire for regional stability. Officials dismissed speculation that Pakistan could become a target in any wider escalation, terming such assertions unfounded.
Internal Security and Governance
The official acknowledged that the Pakistan Army’s role in internal security has expanded due to governance challenges and incomplete implementation of the National Action Plan.
Political stakeholders were urged to strengthen civilian institutions and ensure more effective governance to address long-term security concerns.
Protests and Law Enforcement
On domestic protests linked to regional tensions, the official said peaceful assembly remains a constitutional right. However, authorities will act against any violence or attempts to create disorder under the guise of protest.
