ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir said on Saturday militants operating from sanctuaries in Afghanistan would not be allowed to threaten the country’s security, underscoring Islamabad’s hardening stance on cross-border militancy.
The remarks come amid persistent tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, with Islamabad accusing militant groups, including the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), of carrying out attacks from Afghan territory, an allegation denied by the Afghan Taliban authorities.
The warning also follows a recent escalation in hostilities along the border, including air and drone strikes, as both sides trade accusations over security violations.
“Terrorists operating from sanctuaries across the border in Afghanistan will not be allowed to undermine Pakistan’s security,” the military said in a statement after Munir’s interaction with troops during a visit to Kurram, a tribal district bordering Afghanistan that has long been a flashpoint for militant activity and counterterrorism operations.
The army chief praised troops for their “unwavering dedication, high morale, and exemplary professionalism” and commended their role in Operation Ghazab-lil-Haq against targets in Afghanistan, which the military says is aimed at dismantling militant networks and stabilizing border regions.
He also reiterated Pakistan’s position that Afghan soil must not be used by hostile elements for attacks against the country, while emphasizing the armed forces’ commitment to defending national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The military said Munir attributed operational gains to the sacrifices of fallen soldiers and the resolve of serving personnel.
