Pakistan is set to initiate new diplomatic efforts to persuade the interim Afghan Taliban government to dismantle terrorist sanctuaries, as part of a recently approved plan by the country’s civil and military leadership. This move is under the new military campaign, “Operation Azm-e-Istehkam,” aimed at eliminating terrorism and extremism.
The Central Apex Committee of the National Action Plan (NAP) sanctioned the operation on Saturday, which targets both internal security and external threats from Afghanistan. Sources indicate that the operation will intensify military and intelligence efforts against terrorist groups and launch a fresh diplomatic drive to neutralize threats from across the border.
Since the Taliban’s return to power in Kabul in August 2021, terrorist attacks in Pakistan have increased significantly. The first five months of this year alone saw an 83% rise in attacks, prompting authorities to launch this new campaign.
Pakistan plans to engage the Kabul regime once more, urging it to fulfil its promises of eradicating terrorist sanctuaries. Additionally, Pakistan will seek China’s help in persuading the Afghan Taliban to change their stance on the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). China, with significant investment interests in Pakistan, has more influence over the Taliban and is concerned about the security situation.
The Pakistan UN Ambassador, Munir Akram, recently told the UN Security Council that eliminating terrorism within and from Afghanistan is crucial for global and regional security. He urged the Afghan Interim Government (AIG) to take effective action against various terrorist groups, including TTP, Al-Qaeda, ETIM, and IMU. He highlighted the threat posed by the TTP to Pakistan, detailing their intensified attacks and sophisticated weaponry.
Ambassador Akram called on the UN Security Council to pressure the AIG to cut ties with the TTP, prevent cross-border attacks, disarm terrorists, and hand over TTP leaders to Pakistan. He emphasized the need for sustained engagement with Afghan authorities to normalize the situation in Afghanistan.
The UN Security Council meeting on Afghanistan also underscored the need for a realistic roadmap for Afghanistan’s normalization and integration into the global community. Ambassador Akram stressed the importance of addressing humanitarian needs and reviving the Afghan economy, urging the release of Afghanistan’s frozen assets and the initiation of infrastructure and regional connectivity projects.
Pakistan remains committed to promoting peace, stability, and development in Afghanistan and will continue efforts at all levels to achieve these objectives.
June 24, 2024
Source: Express Tribune