Islamabad: Pakistan on Friday formally protested with the Afghan Taliban government over a terrorist attack on a military camp in North Waziristan, which martyred four Pakistani soldiers. The attack was carried out by terrorists affiliated with the Khawarij Gul Bahadur group, according to Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry.
Diplomatic Demarche Delivered to Afghan Officials
To convey its position, Pakistan summoned the Deputy Head of Mission of Afghanistan to the Foreign Ministry, delivering a strong demarche. Officials expressed “deep concern” over the continued support and facilitation provided by the Afghan Taliban to groups such as the Khawarij and Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which enable attacks on Pakistan’s military and civilian populations along the border.
Calls for Investigation and Action
Pakistan demanded that the Afghan Taliban government conduct thorough investigations into the cross-border attacks and take decisive action against the perpetrators and their facilitators. The ministry stressed that Afghanistan must implement immediate, concrete and verifiable measures against all terrorist groups, including their leadership, to prevent the use of Afghan territory for attacks on Pakistan.
Right to Self-Defence Affirmed
Officials emphasised that Pakistan reserves the right to protect its sovereignty and citizens. Islamabad warned that it will take all necessary measures in response to terrorism emanating from Afghan soil and will not refrain from acting if required.
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