Defence Minister Khwaja Asif signals possible action against terrorists hideouts in cross-border Afghanistan following a series of deadly terror attacks in Pakistan.
Speaking to the private tv channel, Khwaja Asif said that Pakistan will go after enemies in any country.
Khwaja Asif continued: “If we have to resort to hot pursuit and enter [Afghanistan] to eliminate our enemies, we will do so. This is a matter of Pakistan’s national security, not friendship. A [lenient] approach will be detrimental to our security,” Asif asserted.
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During the discussion, he accused former Prime Minister Imran Khan for bringing back TTP in the region to establish a private militia, which he said harmed the country’s internal security.
“Those opposing action against such terrorists are working against Pakistan’s interests. These elements were brought here three years ago to establish a private militia to eliminate political opponents if needed,” he said, hinting at the former ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf.
He emphasised that Pakistan can take strong action against forces that provide safe havens to hostile elements. Asif accused Afghan government of supporting TTP terrorists.
He stated that Khwaja Asif also mentioned the National Action Plan already exists and is now being reinstated to eliminate terrorism effectively.
The Parliamentary Committee on National Security on Tuesday approved a unanimous declaration, reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to eradicating terrorism in all its forms and vowed decisive action against elements threatening national stability.
The country’s top civil and military leadership reiterated this commitment during the first committee meeting under government of PMLN-led coalition government. However, PTI boycotted the meeting.
The meeting was called followed a deadly terror attack on Jaffer Express by Balochistan Liberation Army militants.
The terrorists blew up train tracks and held over 440 passengers hostage in a day-long standoff. Pakistan claims the attack was orchestrated by their handlers in Afghanistan.