Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir on Thursday alleged that Afghan soil remains a sanctuary for India-sponsored terrorists Fitna al-Khawarij and Fitna al-Hindustan.
Speaking with a Jirga of tribal elders in Peshawar, he said the Taliban regime’s support of terrorists targeting Pakistan persisted despite repeated efforts by Islamabad to improve ties with Kabul. In a statement, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) quoted the Army chief as emphasizing that Pakistan had always sought peace with all its neighbors, including Afghanistan. However, he added, Pakistan would not allow cross-border terrorism on its soil from Afghanistan.
Lauding the tribal people’s “steadfast and unconditional” support to security forces during Pakistan’s recent standoff with the Taliban and their affiliated militant groups, he paid tribute to the sacrifices made by the people of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa in the war against terrorism.
The field marshal noted that Pakistan had been exercising patience and restraint for years despite cross-border attacks on security forces and civilians. He assured the participants that security forces would cleanse Pakistan, particularly KP, of all terrorists and their abettors.
The Jirga participants, per ISPR, appreciated the COAS’ candid discourse and expressed their unwavering commitment for peace in Pakistan. They also highlighted that Fitna al-Khawarij’s “twisted ideology” had no acceptance among the tribes of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.
Upon his arrival to Peshawar, the Peshawar Corps Commander received the COAS. After the meeting, he visited Headquarters 11 Corps, where he was briefed on KP’s security situation, operational preparedness of forces, ongoing counterterrorism efforts, and the situation on the Pak-Afghan border.