General Asim Munir Discusses Tensions with Afghanistan Over TTP Presence

In a recent meeting in Peshawar, Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir, highlighted the presence of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in Afghanistan as a major issue between Pakistan and Afghanistan. He noted that cross-border terrorist activities are straining relations between the two countries. Pakistan has urged Afghanistan to take action against TTP militants allegedly using Afghan territory for attacks, but Kabul denies these claims.

Last month, tensions rose when Pakistan bombed suspected TTP hideouts in Afghanistan's Paktika province, resulting in casualties on both sides. General Munir emphasized the importance of a positive relationship with Afghanistan, calling it a "brotherly neighbour and an Islamic country." However, he pointed out that the presence of TTP in Afghanistan remains a significant problem.

General Munir clarified that no large-scale military operations are happening in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the TTP is not active within Pakistan. The military is focusing on intelligence-based operations to combat terrorism. He stressed the need for unity against terrorism and highlighted the importance of the National Action Plan (NAP) in tackling terrorism and extremism.

Political leaders at the meeting expressed concerns about security in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and called for the full implementation of the NAP. They suggested engaging with Afghanistan's interim government to address security challenges, despite previous unsuccessful attempts. The meeting underscored the need for cooperation between Pakistan and Afghanistan to achieve regional peace and stability.