Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has indicated that the country may soon act against terrorists operating from Afghan soil. He said action could be taken before the start of Ramadan if security threats continue.
Speaking on ARY News programme Khabar, Khawaja Asif said Pakistan cannot afford further delays. He noted that prolonged inaction has already caused serious losses. He added that third parties are involved in discussions and understand the risks of continued instability.
The defence minister did not give a clear timeline. However, he stressed that Pakistan would have to respond sooner rather than later. According to him, militant activity linked to Afghanistan has not decreased.
Asif warned that if Afghan authorities remain passive, they would share responsibility. He said Pakistan remains open to dialogue. However, talks cannot continue while attacks take place inside Pakistani territory.
He made it clear that Pakistan may act against terrorists if peaceful options fail. He said the country cannot accept repeated violence after assurances of cooperation.
The minister confirmed that some communication continues with Afghanistan’s interim Taliban government. He said informal discussions are ongoing. However, no formal proposals are currently under consideration.
Asif added that Afghan officials have admitted limits in their capacity. They cannot offer written security guarantees. Only verbal assurances have been shared so far.
He suggested that regional peace could improve if neighboring countries work together. Joint guarantees for stability in Afghanistan could also unlock economic support for the region.
On internal matters, Khawaja Asif stressed unity between civilian and military leadership. He said both sides must stand together to defeat terrorism. He praised security forces for their sacrifices and ongoing operations.
He said Pakistan’s resolve to act against terrorists remains firm. Provinces must also stay aligned in counterterrorism efforts. According to him, coordination is essential to ensure long-term security.
The defence minister briefly touched on other national matters. These included decisions on cricket diplomacy with India and current political developments. He emphasized that national interest must always come first.
Asif concluded by saying Pakistan seeks peace. However, peace cannot come at the cost of security. If threats persist, decisive action will follow to protect the country and its people.
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