Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif emphasized the nation’s commitment to avoiding armed conflict with Afghanistan following recent airstrikes on alleged terrorist hideouts across the border. In an exclusive statement with VOA, Asif reiterated that force is the last resort, and Pakistan does not seek confrontation with its neighbor. However, he cautioned that if Afghanistan fails to curb anti-Pakistan terrorists operating on its soil, Pakistan reserves the right to reconsider its facilitation of the trade corridor to India. The airstrikes conducted earlier targeted Tehrik-e-Taliban and its affiliates in response to an attack on a military base in North Waziristan that claimed seven lives, including two officers. Pakistan alleges that the TTP and its supporters find refuge in Afghanistan, a claim supported by UN intelligence assessments.

Asif conveyed Pakistan’s concerns during a visit to Kabul in February 2023, urging the Taliban ministers to control the TTP and prevent hostilities against Pakistan. Despite Taliban denials, tensions escalated following the airstrikes, with Taliban forces reportedly targeting Pakistani positions. While a tense calm prevails along the border, experts warn of potential unconventional retaliation from the Afghan Taliban, including support for anti-Pakistan militants. Asif expressed hope for Afghanistan to address Pakistan’s demand to rein in the TTP, thus avoiding further military escalation.

Responding to the situation, the U.S. State Department urged both parties to address their differences and prevent terrorist attacks from Afghan soil while ensuring civilian safety in counterterrorism efforts. Meanwhile, China, Pakistan’s key ally, has yet to publicly comment on the cross-border tensions, a silence dismissed by Asif, who emphasized Pakistan’s focus on protecting its interests regardless of international applause.