RASC News Agency: Munir Akram, a senior Pakistani official, has asserted that Afghanistan represents a major security threat not only to its neighboring countries but to the entire region. Akram warned that Afghanistan harbors more than 20 terrorist groups, posing a growing menace to regional stability. He accused the Afghanistani Taliban of “playing with fire” by sheltering these organizations, turning the country into what he described as a “terrorist sanctuary.” While the Taliban claim to be engaged in combating ISIS, he argued, they continue to overlook or even tolerate the presence of groups such as Al-Qaeda, Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and the Baloch Liberation Movement.
He further stated that Pakistan, in collaboration with other countries, plans to establish a specialized task force within the Doha Process framework to intensify counterterrorism efforts in Afghanistan. These remarks come in the aftermath of a deadly attack by Baloch separatists, who took over 400 Pakistani citizens hostage, killing dozens. Pakistan has alleged that the attack was orchestrated from Afghanistani territory and executed with Indian support. Referring to the incident, Akram emphasized the growing threat of terrorism, noting that Pakistani security forces, particularly in border regions, are facing relentless attacks and increasing casualties.
Pakistan has long accused the Afghanistani Taliban of sheltering anti-Pakistani militant groups. Reports indicate that TTP and Baloch separatist leaders are actively operating within Afghanistan, allegedly enjoying both covert and overt support from the Taliban. These groups remain among the most active armed factions challenging Pakistan’s security. Despite these accusations, the Taliban have repeatedly denied harboring any militant groups, rejecting claims that Afghanistan is being used as a staging ground for anti-Pakistani activities.
