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Khawaja Asif Signals Action Against Terrorists in Afghanistan Before Ramadan
Defense Minister Khawaja Asif warns terrorism from Afghanistan will be addressed before Ramadan. He emphasizes sacrifices of 3,141 martyrs in the past five years and calls for national unity over politics.
ND
by News Desk
2026-02-11
Khawaja Asif Signals Action Against Terrorists in Afghanistan Before Ramadan

Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has indicated that Pakistan may take action against terrorist groups operating from Afghanistan before Ramadan, highlighting the persistent security threat emanating from across the border.

In an interview on Tuesday, the PML-N leader stated that Pakistan cannot remain a spectator to attacks originating from Afghanistan, emphasizing that delays in addressing terrorism have already cost the country heavily. “Terrorism from Afghanistan is not stopping. If they are just spectators, then they are accomplices. We will have to respond as soon as possible,” he said.

Khawaja Asif noted that while third-party mediators are engaging in talks, Pakistan expects guarantees that Afghan-based groups will not continue attacks on its soil. He added that the Afghan Taliban maintain some contact with the interim government, and peaceful solutions could be explored if all countries involved provide guarantees, including financial support.

On Domestic Politics and National Unity

The Defense Minister criticized statements by opposition leaders targeting the Pakistan Army. Addressing the National Assembly, he said comments by Opposition Leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai suggesting the army represents only four districts were “irresponsible” and harmful to national unity. “The army does not belong to any district or province but to the entire country, which is sacrificing its lives against terrorism. Martyrs are our red line,” he stated.

Khawaja Asif also provided updated figures on sacrifices in the war against terrorism. From 2021 to February 10, 2026, Pakistan lost 3,141 personnel, including 170 officers, 212 junior commissioned officers, and 2,759 soldiers. He said Punjab recorded the highest number of martyrs at 1,657, followed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (534), Sindh (452), Azad Kashmir (234), Gilgit-Baltistan (161), and Balochistan (103).

The Defense Minister further highlighted counter-terrorism efforts in Balochistan, noting that over 200 terrorists were killed in security operations. He emphasized that these measures are necessary to maintain law and order and that Pakistan will continue to uphold its writ.

On politics, Khawaja Asif urged leaders to prioritize national interest over personal or party gains. “Some politicians live in a grey area and fight for personal interests. Soldiers who are martyred do not change their commitment and loyalty,” he said.
Tagged:

CounterTerrorism

KhawajaAsif

PakistanDefense

AfghanistanTerrorism
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