POLITICS & POLICY MAKING
President Asif Ali Zardari has strongly condemned the recent drone attacks targeting civilian areas in Pakistan, which authorities say were launched by the Afghan Taliban regime.
In a statement issued from the Presidency, Zardari described the Taliban government in Afghanistan as an illegitimate administration that came to power through violence and intimidation. He said the Afghan leadership had repeatedly failed to fulfil its commitments to prevent terrorist groups from using Afghan territory as safe havens.
According to the president, the Afghan authorities had assured the international community that they would not allow militant groups to operate from their soil. However, he said the recent drone attacks demonstrated a continued pattern of actions that threaten regional peace and security.
Zardari warned that by attempting to target civilians, the Afghan Taliban had crossed a “red line” and provoked a major military power of the Islamic world.
He added that while the Afghan leadership seeks engagement with Pakistan’s friendly countries, its actions on the ground contradict its diplomatic messaging.
“Such provocations will have serious consequences,” the president said, stressing that Pakistan will not tolerate attacks on its civilian population.
The president also highlighted Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to promote peace and stability across the Gulf region and West Asia, noting that regional stability remains a key priority for Islamabad.
Expressing concern over the recent attacks, Zardari extended his best wishes for the speedy recovery of those injured after drone debris fell in several cities, including Quetta, Kohat and Rawalpindi.
He reiterated that Pakistan’s armed forces and security agencies remain fully committed to safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and protecting its citizens from external threats.
The statement comes amid heightened tensions between Pakistan and the Taliban authorities in Afghanistan following a series of cross-border security incidents and military responses.
Officials say the situation continues to be closely monitored as Pakistan maintains its stance against terrorism and threats originating from across the border.