Pakistan carried out intelligence-based, selective strikes against seven terrorist camps and hideouts along the Pakistan–Afghanistan border in response to a series of recent suicide bombings, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting said on Friday, citing what it described as conclusive evidence of cross-border involvement.
In a press release on Sunday, the ministry said the recent attacks — including the bombing at an Imam Bargah in Islamabad, incidents in Bajaur and Bannu, and another attack in Bannu during the holy month of Ramzan — were perpetrated by Khwarij elements acting on the behest of their Afghanistan-based leadership and handlers.
The statement said responsibility for the attacks was claimed by Afghanistan-based Pakistani Taliban factions belonging to Fitna al Khwarij (FAK) and their affiliates, as well as the Islamic State of Khorasan Province (ISKP).
According to the ministry, despite repeated requests by Pakistan urging the Afghan Taliban regime to take verifiable measures to prevent the use of Afghan territory by terrorist groups and foreign proxies targeting Pakistan, no substantive action had been taken.
“In this backdrop, Pakistan, in a retributive response, has carried out intelligence-based selective targeting of seven terrorist camps and hideouts belonging to Pakistani Taliban of FAK and its affiliates and ISKP at the border region with precision and accuracy,” the statement said.
The government reiterated that while Pakistan has consistently sought to maintain peace and stability in the region, the safety and security of its citizens remain its foremost priority.
Islamabad also urged the Interim Afghan Government to fulfil its obligations and prevent the use of its soil by Khwarij and other terrorist elements against Pakistan. The statement called on the international community to play a constructive role in encouraging the Taliban regime to honour its commitments under the Doha Agreement to deny the use of Afghan territory for attacks against other countries — a step described as vital for regional and global peace and security. — LORD
