Khawaja Asif Rejects Afghan Claims on TTP Militants

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has strongly rejected claims by an Afghan delegation that Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants in Afghanistan are Pakistani refugees returning home. The Afghan delegation had suggested that these militants were merely refugees crossing back into Pakistan. Asif questioned this claim, calling it “evidence of ill intent.”

In a social media post, Asif pointed out the illogical nature of the Afghan explanation. He asked how these individuals could be refugees when they were heavily armed with destructive weapons. He also questioned how they could be considered refugees if they were sneaking into Pakistan through difficult mountainous routes instead of using regular means like buses or vehicles.

Asif called the Afghan argument “flawed and deceptive,” emphasizing that the claim revealed Kabul’s true stance on terrorism. He criticized the Afghan government’s failure to address the issue of TTP militants using Afghan soil to launch attacks against Pakistan. His remarks come amid rising tensions between the two countries over cross-border militancy.

The Defence Minister’s statements followed the breakdown of talks between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban in Istanbul. These talks were held in an attempt to ease tensions but failed to bring about a resolution. Asif condemned “venomous” comments from some Afghan officials, accusing them of revealing a fractured and dangerous mindset within the Taliban regime.

As tensions continue, Asif warned that Pakistan would not hesitate to use its military strength if necessary. He stated that Pakistan has the power to completely obliterate the Afghan Taliban and push them back into hiding. This warning echoed the Taliban’s 2001 defeat at Tora Bora, signaling Pakistan’s resolve in addressing cross-border terrorism.

Read More : Khawaja Asif Says India Using Afghanistan for Proxy War

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has accused India of using Afghanistan to wage a “proxy war” against Pakistan. He claimed that India seeks revenge for its May 2025 defeat and humiliation. According to him, the recent actions of the Afghan government are being directed from New Delhi. He said Kabul lacks the independence to conduct genuine talks. The minister emphasized that Pakistan would not tolerate aggression from any side.