Responding to media reports of airstrikes on Kabul, Pakistan’s Foreign Office on Friday affirmed that its security forces conduct meticulously planned operations in border regions to counter terrorist threats, while urging Afghan authorities to prevent their territory from being used as a base for attacks against Pakistan.
During a press briefing, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs explained Pakistan”s principled position, stating that the nation has an “unwavering commitment to the security and well-being of its people.” The official noted that such actions are based on credible intelligence and executed with precision to safeguard citizens from groups like the TTP, also known as Fitna al Khwarij.
While deferring specific details on the alleged Kabul incident to an upcoming press conference by the DG ISPR, the spokesperson emphasized that Pakistan respects Afghanistan”s sovereignty and has consistently prioritized diplomacy. The official reiterated the call for Kabul to ensure its territory is not used as a launchpad for militant activities, describing groups like the TTP as a “common threat to the peace and stability of our region.”
The tense security situation was further highlighted by a clarification regarding a statement from Pakistan”s Defense Minister. The spokesperson corrected a reporter”s query, stating the Afghan side had requested 10 billion rupees for relocating TTP militants, not for handing them over, but could not guarantee they would cease attacks from their new locations.
On the diplomatic front, Pakistan welcomed the recently announced ceasefire agreement in Gaza, praising the leadership of U.S. President Donald Trump and the tireless efforts of Qatar, Egypt, and Turkiye. Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar had held telephonic discussions with his Egyptian and Saudi counterparts to review diplomatic efforts for a durable peace based on the two-state solution.
The spokesperson also confirmed the release of former Senator Mushtaq, the last Pakistani national detained by Israel following its interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla. The Foreign Office monitored the situation closely, ensuring the safety of Pakistani nationals and facilitating the former senator”s return home.
In other diplomatic activities, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif concluded a successful official trip to Malaysia from October 5-7. The visit resulted in a significant announcement by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to import halal meat worth USD 200 million and an agreement to deepen defense cooperation. Both leaders also condemned the situation in Gaza and reiterated support for an independent Palestinian state.
The briefing also covered a high-level Saudi business delegation”s visit to Islamabad, led by His Highness Prince Mansour bin Mohammad Al Saud, to explore enhanced trade and investment partnerships aligned with Saudi Vision 2030.
Additionally, recent diplomatic engagements included bilateral political consultations with Tajikistan in Dushanbe, a telephonic conversation between the Pakistani and Iranian foreign ministers, and Pakistan’s participation in the Quadripartite and Moscow Format meetings on Afghanistan.