Khawaja Asif Warns Kabul of Airstrikes Amid Proxy War Threats

Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has issued a stern warning that Pakistan will not hesitate to conduct airstrikes inside Afghanistan to eliminate terrorist threats if the Taliban administration fails to curb militant activities. He emphasized that the option to strike across the border remains on the table as a legitimate measure for national security. Pakistan has previously conducted operations in Kabul and Kandahar, and the minister clarified that such actions could be repeated to ensure domestic peace.

Proxy War Allegations

In an interview with a French media outlet, Khawaja Asif stated that the recent surge in terrorism within Pakistan is a direct result of a proxy war orchestrated by the Taliban and India. He asserted that New Delhi and Kabul are actively collaborating with militant groups to destabilize the region. According to the minister, mediation attempts held in Istanbul, Doha, and Kabul have failed to yield results because the Afghan leadership continues to patronize and participate in conspiracies against Pakistan.

Presence of Terror Groups

The Defense Minister identified the banned Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and ISIS as primary groups operating from Afghan soil. He argued that it is impossible for these organizations to launch attacks in Pakistan without the explicit knowledge or patronage of the Kabul government. Asif noted that as the de facto rulers of Afghanistan, the Taliban bear full responsibility for any aggression originating from their territory, despite their repeated denials of involvement.

Tensions With India

Khawaja Asif also touched upon relations with India, suggesting that the possibility of a direct military conflict still exists. He recalled a four-day conflict in May last year where he claimed India suffered a significant defeat and international humiliation at the hands of Pakistan’s smaller but more efficient military. Regarding global issues, he reaffirmed that Gaza remains close to the hearts of Pakistanis, highlighting the nation’s extensive experience in UN peacekeeping missions and its unwavering support for Palestine at all international forums.