COAS Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir criticizes Afghan Taliban for supporting India-Backed Terrorists
PESHAWAR: Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir on Thursday strongly criticized the Afghan Taliban regime for allegedly supporting India-backed terrorists, despite Pakistan’s continued efforts to maintain peaceful relations with Kabul.
Addressing a Jirga of tribal elders in Peshawar, the army chief said that “Afghan soil remains a safe sanctuary for Fitna al-Khawarij and Fitna al-Hindustan terrorists,” according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
Field Marshal Munir emphasized that Pakistan has consistently sought peace and cooperation with all its neighbors, including Afghanistan. However, he warned that Islamabad would not tolerate cross-border terrorism originating from Afghan territory.
“Pakistan desires friendly relations with Afghanistan, but we will not allow our people and forces to be targeted from across the border,” he stated.
The COAS lauded the tribal people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) for their “steadfast and unconditional” support to the security forces during recent tensions with militant elements. He also paid tribute to the sacrifices made by the people of KP in the ongoing fight against terrorism.
Field Marshal Munir noted that Pakistan had shown remarkable restraint and patience despite repeated provocations and attacks on both civilians and security personnel from across the Afghan border.
His visit to Peshawar came as security operations intensified across KP, a province that has suffered heavily from militant violence in recent months.
Reaffirming the military’s resolve, the army chief assured tribal leaders that security forces would eliminate all terrorists and their facilitators from Pakistan, particularly from KP.
Later, Field Marshal Munir visited the Headquarters of 11 Corps, where he was received by the Peshawar Corps Commander. During the visit, he was briefed on the current security situation, operational preparedness, counterterrorism measures, and the status of the Pakistan-Afghanistan border.
