THE military’s media wing has released details of infiltration attempts by terrorists based in Afghanistan, saying that the intruders were confronted and neutralised. According to ISPR, at least 54 TTP terrorists were killed in North Waziristan over the last few days while trying to enter Pakistan. It added on Monday that more militants had been killed in the same area. Social media handles associated with the militants have confirmed the casualties. Moreover, at least three TTP terrorists were killed in Bajaur while trying to cross over. The events illustrate that attempts by violent armed actors to enter Pakistan continue, despite promises by the Afghan Taliban to prevent their soil from being used by anti-Pakistan groups. This pledge was reiterated during Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar’s recent visit to Kabul. It seems that the Afghan side needs to be reminded of its promise. Had these intruders not been neutralised, they could have wreaked major havoc in the country.

The news of continued infiltration across Pakistan’s western border comes at a time when things are heating up on the eastern border with India. It is critical, then, to take up the issue immediately with Kabul to alleviate the challenges of a volatile security situation on both frontiers. There has been regular exchange of gunfire across the LoC ever since the Pahalgam tragedy, and considering the anti-Pakistan bellicosity emanating from India, the military must remain alert to thwart any misadventure from the other side. For this, it is essential to maintain calm on the western frontier. Therefore, Pakistan needs to communicate to the Afghan Taliban that it is their responsibility to prevent terrorists from entering this country. Even in more ‘normal’ times, the Afghan Taliban’s apparent lack of action, ie, preventing anti-Pakistan militant activity, was problematic. Now, with South Asia again in crisis mode, the need to prevent such activities becomes ever more imperative. If Kabul wants to genuinely improve ties with Pakistan, it must act without reservation against the banned TTP and other terrorist groups on Afghan soil seeking to harm Pakistan. And while diplomatic efforts are needed to deliver this message clearly to the Afghan side, the military must also maintain its vigil on the western border to ensure that terrorist groups are not able to take advantage of the evolving situation with India to stir up trouble.

Published in Dawn, April 29th, 2025