Afghan Taliban admitted presence of TTP on their soil: Khawaja Asif

ISLAMABAD: Amid the recently fought Pak-Afghan war, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stated that the Afghan Taliban regime has openly admitted to the presence of terrorists on its soil, including members of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

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Speaking on ARY News programme Khabar, he revealed that the regime had previously acknowledged that TTP members had long been its allies and admitted that Kabul does not have full control over them.

The minister stated that during discussions, the Afghan regime claimed that when militants carry out attacks inside Pakistan, they do so “without our backing,” adding that Afghanistan had even sought 10 billion rupees to relocate such elements elsewhere — an offer Pakistan did not accept.

Khawaja Asif emphasized that Pakistan will no longer tolerate cross-border terrorism and that those involved in attacks on its citizens “will face a fitting response.” He stressed, “Anyone whose hands are stained with the blood of Pakistanis will not be spared. The era of silence is over — from now on, it will be tit-for-tat.”

He further warned that Pakistan’s patience should not be mistaken for weakness, saying that in this modern era, “no one can hide underground without being traced.” The minister also said that while Islamabad does not seek escalation, it reserves the right to defend itself. “We want peace and stability, but if aggression continues, our response will be decisive,” he declared.

Referring to the Pak-Afghan border tensions, Khawaja Asif acknowledged that relations between the two neighbours are currently strained, with minimal contact at the official level. He added that renewed clashes along the border cannot be ruled out if terrorist activities persist.

“Our wish is for normal, peaceful relations with Afghanistan,” he said. “We want trade, friendship, and stability in the region — not conflict.” However, he maintained that Pakistan’s security and sovereignty are non-negotiable.

Khawaja Asif also linked the current situation to Pakistan’s broader security policy, saying that the state has made it clear that “only state actors will operate within the country — no private militias or religious or political armed groups.” He stated that the leadership is united on ensuring that the “writ of the state prevails at all costs.”

He recalled that Pakistan’s leadership showed similar unity during past confrontations with India, deciding collectively to respond firmly to aggression. “There was no confusion then, and there is none now,” he asserted.

The Defence Minister concluded by expressing confidence that Pakistan will remain stable and resilient despite challenges. “Our enemies think Pakistan can be destabilized — they are wrong. This country has faced countless trials and will stand strong till the end of time.”