ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar reaffirmed that Pakistan is determined to eliminate terrorism, as a temporary ceasefire with Afghanistan approaches its end.
In his Pakistan Day message, Dar made it clear that the country’s stance on the conflict remains unchanged.
“Pakistan remains firmly committed to eradicate the menace of terrorism,” he said in a statement. “Pakistan´s actions inside Afghanistan… are directed towards this goal.”
Terrorists won’t be allowed to Undermine Pakistan’s Security
Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Asim Munir has also emphasised that terrorists operating from sanctuaries across the border in Afghanistan will not be allowed to undermine Pakistan’s security.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace and stability, the Field Marshal reiterated that Afghan soil must not be used by hostile elements for activities against Pakistan.
In a statement, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said that Field Marshal Munir, who is also the chief of army staff (COAS), made the remarks during visit to Kurram to spend Eid ul Fitr with the troops and officers.
Operation halted, not ended, Taliban must fulfil promises: minister
State Minister for Interior Talal Chaudhry earlier said Pakistan’s ongoing Operation Ghazab lil-Haq against terrorism has been temporarily paused for Eid ul Fitr, but has not been called off. He also urged the Taliban to honour their commitments under the Doha Agreement.
Speaking to reporters, Chaudhry stressed that Pakistan must put its security interests first, adding that militant activities within the country were being directed from across the border.
He clarified that the suspension is only for Eid and is temporary, warning that operations will resume as needed.
Pakistan dismissed Taliban claim of ceasefire violation
Pakistan also rejected as “ridiculous” claims by an Afghan Taliban spokesperson alleging a breach of the temporary halt in Operation Ghazab lil-Haq, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting said.
“Pakistan has not violated any ceasefire, adding that the Afghan authorities’ claims are baseless and based on falsehoods,” the ministry said in a statement.
It said the purpose of such propaganda was to justify acts of terrorism. “Pakistan has made clear that the temporary pause in operations will end, after which any terrorist activity or cross-border attacks will be met with a strong response,” it further stated.
Earlier, Information Minister Ataullah Tarar said in a statement that the operations were paused at the request of Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and Qatar, adding that the suspension would remain in effect until the early hours of March 24.
