Pakistan will persist in its military operations across the border in Afghanistan as part of a renewed strategy to combat terrorism, according to the country’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif. The ongoing aerial strikes are aimed at groups that Pakistan accuses of targeting its security forces and civilians.
Minister Asif, in a recent interview, confirmed the continuity of operations, highlighting that these actions are vital for Pakistan’s national security. “It’s correct that we have been carrying out operations in Afghanistan, and we will continue to do so. We won’t serve them with cake and pastries. If attacked, we’ll attack back,” he stated, emphasizing a no-compromise stance on security threats.
Historically, Pakistani officials had acknowledged only one such strike earlier this year in March. The latest admissions signal a strategic escalation in Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts, which the minister argues are essential for maintaining regional stability.
The Taliban government in Afghanistan has condemned these strikes as violations of its sovereignty. In response, Minister Asif dismissed concerns over the legality of the operations, arguing that notifying the Taliban would compromise the element of surprise. “This would eliminate the element of surprise. Why should we tell them, ‘get ready, we are coming’?” Asif rhetorically questioned, underscoring the tactical necessity of covert operations.
The Taliban’s response was swift and strong, labeling Asif’s statement as “irresponsible” and cautioning that such cross-border attacks would have “consequences.”
Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have been escalating since the Taliban regained control in August 2021. Pakistan accuses a faction of the Taliban, known as the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), of utilizing Afghan territory to launch attacks against Pakistan. “Afghanistan has been reluctant to take action against the TTP, despite our requests to let them not use Afghan soil to attack Pakistan,” Minister Asif lamented, pointing to the strained diplomatic relations between the two neighbors.
Pakistan has recently announced a comprehensive military campaign named “Resolve for Stability,” primarily targeting terrorist factions within Pakistan. This operation marks a significant intensification in the country’s internal security measures, aimed at curbing the rising tide of violence and terrorist activities.
Critics and some government insiders have speculated that the impetus for the new operation stems from pressure exerted by Beijing. China, a significant stakeholder in Pakistan’s security landscape, has expressed growing concerns over the safety of its nationals, particularly those involved in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects under the Belt and Road Initiative.
Chinese Concerns and Security Imperatives
Beijing’s apprehensions were starkly highlighted by a tragic incident in March 2024, when a suicide bomber attacked a convoy of Chinese engineers working on a hydropower project in northwest Pakistan, resulting in the deaths of five Chinese nationals. The Pakistani military attributed the attack to elements based in Afghanistan, further straining cross-border relations.
Despite accusations of external pressure influencing Pakistan’s military operations, Minister Asif refuted these claims. “The operations are not a result of pressure from China,” he asserted. However, he acknowledged that the measures would indeed enhance security for Chinese projects and nationals within Pakistan.
The continuation of cross-border military operations by Pakistan has profound implications for the regional geopolitical landscape. The dynamic between Pakistan and Afghanistan, particularly in light of the Taliban’s resurgence, remains fraught with complexities. The operations underscore Pakistan’s determination to tackle terrorism but also risk escalating conflicts with the Afghan government.
The international community watches closely as Pakistan navigates this precarious balance between national security and regional diplomacy. The future trajectory of Pakistan’s military operations and their impact on Afghan sovereignty will undoubtedly shape the geopolitical narrative in South Asia.
Within Pakistan, the renewed military operations have sparked a mix of support and criticism. Proponents argue that decisive action against terrorist groups is essential for the country’s stability and security. Conversely, critics caution against potential overreach and the risk of collateral damage, which could exacerbate tensions both domestically and with Afghanistan.
Internationally, reactions are similarly divided. Some nations support Pakistan’s right to defend itself against terrorist threats, while others urge restraint and adherence to international laws regarding sovereignty and military intervention.
Beyond the strategic and political dimensions, the human cost of these operations cannot be overlooked. Cross-border strikes inevitably lead to civilian casualties and displacement, further complicating the already dire humanitarian situation in the region. Aid organizations call for comprehensive efforts to minimize harm to civilians and ensure that humanitarian aid reaches those affected by the conflict.
Pakistan’s declaration to continue its military operations in Afghanistan marks a significant chapter in its ongoing battle against terrorism. As Defence Minister Khawaja Asif underscores the necessity of these strikes for national security, the regional and international ramifications remain complex and multifaceted. The evolving dynamics between Pakistan and Afghanistan, influenced by broader geopolitical interests, will continue to shape the security landscape in South Asia. The global community’s response and the adherence to international norms will play a crucial role in determining the future course of these operations and their impact on regional stability.
