WASHINGTON: The US State Department has said that Pakistan has every right to defend itself against terrorist attacks.
According to Reuters, the State Department said the United States supports Pakistan’s right to take action in self-defense against terrorism.
A State Department spokesperson added that the people of Pakistan have suffered immensely and made tremendous sacrifices in the fight against terrorism.
The statement comes after Pakistan, under Operation Ghazab-ul-Haq, targeted what it described as terrorist hideouts inside Afghanistan following a recent wave of terrorist attacks.
The report noted that the United States has previously described Pakistan as an important partner in counterterrorism efforts. Former US Central Command (CENTCOM) chief General Michael Kurilla has also publicly praised Pakistan’s role and counterterrorism operations.
According to the report, analysts say there is substantial evidence that Afghan territory has continued to be used by militant groups to carry out attacks inside Pakistan, including the recent attack on Rangers installations in Karachi. They argue that Pakistan exercised its right to self-defense under international law by targeting terrorist bases in Afghanistan.
Analysts further say the US State Department’s statement strengthens Pakistan’s position in the fight against terrorism. They add that Pakistan’s armed forces remain committed to eliminating Fitna al-Khawarij, Fitna al-Hindustan, and their facilitators under Operation Ghazab-ul-Haq.
The report concludes by claiming that growing international support for Pakistan’s right to self-defense has put the Taliban regime under increased pressure over allegations of supporting or sheltering militant groups.
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