MILITARY
Security forces conducted a successful operation in Balochistan’s Zhob district, neutralising an Afghan national linked to terrorism, the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), announced on Tuesday.
The ISPR stated, “On January 11, 2025, an Afghan national, involved in terrorism inside Pakistan, was killed in the Sambaza area of Zhob district of Balochistan.”
The individual was identified as Muhammad Khan Ahmedkhel, son of Haji Qasim Dawran Khan, a resident of Village Bilorai, District Wazekhwa, Paktika Province, Afghanistan. Following procedural formalities, Ahmedkhel’s body was handed over to Afghan officials on Monday.
Evidence of Cross-Border Terrorism
The ISPR emphasized that this incident serves as further evidence of Afghan nationals’ involvement in terrorist activities within Pakistan. The statement urged the interim Afghan government to fulfil its international obligations by denying terrorist groups the use of Afghan soil to launch attacks on Pakistan.
Pakistan has repeatedly raised concerns over the outlawed Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) using Afghanistan as a base for cross-border terrorism. While Kabul has denied these allegations, the tension has strained relations between the two neighbors, leading to frequent border skirmishes.
Escalating Security Challenges
In recent months, security forces have intensified operations in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) to counter the rising threat of terrorism. On Sunday, five terrorists attempting to infiltrate Pakistan from Afghanistan were killed in the same Sambaza area of Zhob district.
The military’s top brass has also been engaging with Pakistan’s political leadership to address the deteriorating security situation. During a recent four-hour meeting, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir pointed out the interim Afghan government’s repeated failures to heed warnings and prevent cross-border terrorist activities.
Strained Relations with Afghanistan
The issue of cross-border terrorism has further strained Pakistan-Afghanistan relations. Pakistan has consistently urged the Afghan government to take concrete action against terrorist groups operating from its territory.
Security officials and political leaders have called for both diplomatic and military measures to tackle the issue. Despite the challenges, Pakistan continues to push for effective border management and regional cooperation to ensure peace and stability.
As the security situation evolves, Pakistan’s armed forces remain vigilant, conducting targeted operations to protect its borders and citizens from the threat of terrorism.