The BRICS TimesKhawaja Asif firmly stated that all Afghans residing in Pakistan must return to their homeland. He declared that old ties with Kabul are over. Asif also strongly warned of a severe response to border attacks.
Pak Defence Minister Takes Tough Stance
Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif adopted a very sharp tone toward Kabul. He stated that all Afghan citizens in Pakistan must return to their country. He also said that previous relations with Afghanistan would not continue now. This statement has significantly increased cross-border tensions.
Pakistan’s Resources Are for Its People
Asif used social media and public statements to deliver his message. He argued that Kabul now has its own government and system. Therefore, Pakistan’s land and resources belong to its 25 crore citizens only. He also claimed that foreign refugees are increasing pressure on local security and resources. Asif mentioned Pakistan showed great patience for a long time. However, he noted they got no positive response from the Afghan side.
Ceasefire Broken Amidst Tensions
In a moment of rising tension, Pakistan and Afghanistan had agreed to a 48-hour ceasefire. There were discussions to extend it for further talks and diplomatic efforts. However, allegations arose that Pakistan conducted airstrikes immediately after the ceasefire in Paktika and nearby areas. Following these strikes, the Taliban announced that the ceasefire had been broken. These specific incidents have definitely hampered peace efforts between the two countries.
Khawaja Asif Makes Major Claims
Khawaja Asif further claimed that Pakistan had issued several notices to Afghanistan. These were regarding cross-border terrorist incidents. He specifically cited sending 836 protest letters and 13 démarches. He warned that Pakistan would no longer rely only on diplomatic appeals or letters. Asif sternly cautioned that the sources of all terrorist acts would have to pay a very heavy price.
Allegations Against the Taliban Government
Asif also accused the ruling Taliban government in Kabul of acting to suit India’s interests. He claimed a conspiracy against Pakistan existed, involving India and the outlawed Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). India completely rejected this specific accusation. Such accusations and counter-accusations by regional players have certainly complicated the current situation.
Pakistan Counts Its Losses Since 2021
The Defence Minister stated that Pakistan has suffered significant losses in security and humanitarian sectors. This has occurred since the Taliban came to power in 2021. He quantified the violence, citing 10,347 terrorist incidents and 3,844 casualties during this time. Asif affirmed that Pakistan is prepared to deliver a strict and decisive response. This response will happen if an attack originates from Afghan territory.
Diplomacy Efforts Still On
Local and international media reports indicate that attempts to continue diplomacy are still underway. Potential talks and mediation are being discussed in Qatar. The goal is to control border violence and find a future diplomatic path. Nevertheless, the recent airstrikes and mutual accusations have escalated regional tension. This increases the possibility of renewed violence.
Akshay Didwaniya