Saifullah Ansar
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Thursday clarified that the so-called ceasefire understanding with Afghanistan does not represent a traditional ceasefire between two warring states, but rather an assurance that Afghan-based militant groups would halt cross-border terrorist attacks inside Pakistan.
Responding to a question regarding Afghanistan’s claim of retaliation and whether Pakistan had heightened security, the Foreign Office spokesperson drew a sharp distinction between a military ceasefire and the arrangement Pakistan had expected Kabul to uphold.
The spokesperson said the understanding with Afghanistan meant that “there would be no terrorist attack by Afghan-sponsored terrorist proxies into Pakistan.” However, he noted that several major attacks had taken place after this commitment, carried out by TTP, FAK and other Afghan nationals allegedly operating from Afghan soil.
“Interpreting it in that sense, the ceasefire is not holding,” he stated, adding that the situation must be understood strictly in the context of terrorist infiltration, not conventional warfare.
The spokesperson pointed out that recent attacks inside Pakistan, including in Islamabad, had involved Afghan nationals, raising serious concerns about Taliban-era assurances. He stressed that the responsibility to prevent such incidents lies with the Afghan interim authorities, who must ensure their territory is not used against Pakistan.
Regarding Afghanistan’s statements suggesting retaliation after the strike Kabul attributed to Pakistan, the Foreign Office dismissed the notion of panic or fear, saying Pakistan’s defence apparatus remained vigilant and prepared.
“Our security forces remain fully alert. Our military preparedness is robust,” the spokesperson said. “The security challenges we face would be addressed with the seriousness they merit.”
The exchange comes amid rising tensions between the two neighbours, with Pakistan repeatedly accusing militant groups based in Afghanistan of orchestrating attacks, and Kabul denying involvement.
