Pakistan has accused the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) of carrying out 22 attacks from Afghanistan over a two-week period. The government has raised concerns over increasing cross-border militancy and its impact on regional security.
Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has formally addressed the Taliban Embassy in Islamabad. It claims that TTP militants launched these attacks between June 16 and June 30, 2024. The ministry sent a letter along with a list of the incidents on July 24, 2024. The letter urges the Taliban to take action against TTP militants operating from Afghan soil.
Regions Targeted in Pakistan
According to the provided list, TTP militants targeted several regions in Pakistan. The attacks occurred in North and South Waziristan, Khyber, Kurram, Bannu, Orakzai, Tank, Dera Ismail Khan, and Bajaur. Pakistani authorities claim that these attacks were coordinated by militant groups linked to Hakimullah Mehsud, Hafiz Gul Bahadur, and Alam Khan. These leaders are reportedly based in Afghanistan’s Paktika, Khost, and Nangarhar provinces.
Pakistan Blames Taliban for Sheltering TTP
Pakistan has repeatedly accused the Afghan Taliban of providing shelter to TTP leaders and fighters. The government alleges that Afghanistan has become a safe haven for these militants. Pakistani officials claim that the Taliban’s inaction allows TTP to carry out operations against security forces and civilians in Pakistan. However, the Taliban has denied these allegations and dismissed Pakistan’s claims as baseless.
Taliban Accuses Pakistan of Airspace Violations
While Pakistan blames Afghanistan for harboring militants, the Taliban has also made counterclaims. Taliban officials accuse Pakistan of breaching Afghan airspace and launching airstrikes in Paktika province. Reports suggest that these airstrikes have killed over 45 people, including women and children. The Taliban has strongly condemned these actions, calling them violations of Afghanistan’s sovereignty.
Escalation of Militant Attacks in Pakistan
Attacks by TTP and other militant groups have intensified in Pakistan in recent months. Security personnel and civilians have been frequent targets. The increase in violence has raised concerns among experts about the deteriorating security situation in the region. The Pakistani government has vowed to take strict measures to combat these threats.
Urgent Need for Border Security Cooperation
The ongoing cross-border violence has heightened tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Despite the Taliban’s denial of harboring militants, Pakistan continues to demand action against TTP fighters. Security analysts argue that resolving this issue requires stronger cooperation between both governments. Effective measures must be implemented to secure the border and prevent further violence.
As the situation escalates, regional stability remains at risk. Experts emphasize the need for diplomatic engagement and joint efforts to tackle militancy. Without coordinated action, the threat of further attacks will continue to grow, worsening tensions between the two neighboring countries.
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