"Terrorism has been at the core of Afghanistans problems. This finds its roots in the deep nexus between the Taliban and terrorist groups such as the TTP, BLA and its Majeed Brigade, ISIL-K, ETIM, and their affiliates that are operating with impunity on Afghan soil and the situation made worse by external actors, the spoilers who support proxies inside Afghanistan to target Pakistan and other neighboring countries.That is the unfortunate reality on the groundand it is Pakistan that is most directly impacted, paying a heavy cost. Over the last three years alone, more than 4,700 innocent Pakistanis have lost their lives to terrorism emanating from Afghanistan.Pakistan cannot sit idle in the face of this terrorist onslaught. We will respond in self-defense, as and when needed and in accordance with international law.Statement by Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the UN, at the Meeting of the UN Security Council on the Situation in AfghanistanPlease watch the full statement below"
Terrorism has persistently impacted the socio-political landscape of Afghanistan, deeply intertwined with the rise of the Taliban and their affiliations with various terrorist entities, including the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) and its Majeed Brigade, as well as international terror organizations such as ISIL-K and the East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM). These groups have exploited Afghanistan's instability, launching operations with relative impunity, which exacerbates the security challenges faced by neighboring nations, particularly Pakistan.
The last three years have been particularly devastating for Pakistan, which has borne the brunt of cross-border terrorism. According to reports, over 4,700 innocent Pakistani lives have been lost to terrorism influenced by groups operating from Afghanistan. This alarming statistic underscores the deep-rooted nexus between these extremist factions and their detrimental impact on Pakistans national security. Pakistan asserts that it cannot remain passive while encountering such threats; self-defense measures are critical in mitigating this precarious situation.
Recently, Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, articulated the nation's perspective during a UN Security Council meeting focused on Afghanistan. His statements shed light on the urgent need for international acknowledgment of terrorisms cross-border effects and the importance of collaborative efforts to counter these threats. The international community's role is essential in disrupting the support networks for these extremist groups, promoting stability and peace in Afghanistan, which in turn will enhance security in Pakistan and the broader region.
As Pakistan navigates this complex security landscape, it is imperative for all stakeholders to engage constructively. While Pakistan acknowledges the serious terrorist threats it faces, it continues to advocate for diplomatic solutions that prioritize dialogue and cooperation. The message is clear: without a concerted effort by both regional players and the international community to address the root causes of extremism, the cycle of violence will persist. Pakistan remains committed to defensive posturing that aligns with international law while urging global partners to join in creating a stable and secure environment where both nations can thrive.
