‘Physical involvement of Afghan nationals’
In its statement, the ISPR noted that intelligence reports “unequivocally confirmed the physical involvement of Afghan nationals in this heinous act, with evidence also pointing to the fact that the attack was orchestrated and directed by
Khwarij ring leaders operating from Afghanistan”.
“Pakistan expects the interim Afghan government to uphold its responsibilities and deny its soil for terrorist activities against Pakistan. Pakistan reserves the right to take necessary measures in response to these threats emanating from across the border,” the military said.
It reaffirmed that the security forces of Pakistan remain steadfast in their resolve to eradicate terrorism in all its forms. “The sacrifices of our brave soldiers and innocent civilians further reinforce our unwavering commitment to safeguarding our nation at all costs.”
Islamabad has consistently voiced
concerns that the banned TTP uses Afghan soil to launch attacks in Pakistan,
asking the Afghan interim government to rein in the group. Kabul denies the allegations.
Last month, the ISPR said an
Afghan national “involved in terrorism inside Pakistan” was killed during an
operation in KP’s North Waziristan district.
That came within a month of Pakistan
repatriating the body of an Afghan national involved in terrorist activities who was
killed in a counterterrorism operation in Balochistan’s Zhob district.
In a
press conference in December last year, ISPR Director General (DG) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said terrorist outfits were being provided “sanctuaries, support, and are allowed unrestrained activities on Afghan territory”.