Pakistan Once Again Raises Airstrike Option Inside Afghanistan

Pakistan has once again warned it could launch airstrikes in Afghanistan if militant groups continue operating freely and carrying out deadly attacks inside Pakistan.

Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has again urged the Taliban to rein in militant groups operating from Afghanistan territory, warning of possible additional airstrikes.

Speaking to France 24, Asif claimed that every major attack inside Pakistan receives backing from elements within the Taliban, escalating tensions between the two neighbors.

Responding to questions about last year’s cross-border airstrikes, he said the military option remains available and Pakistan “will not hesitate” to use it again if necessary.

Asif added that if authorities in Kabul guarantee peace, hostility would end, but accused the Taliban of continuing to support and collaborate with conspirators while, the Taliban deny these allegations.

The defense minister said groups such as the East Turkestan Islamic Movement, Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), ISIS, and other militants are present in Afghanistan and allegedly enjoy safe havens.

In a separate interview with Germany’s Deutsche Welle, Asif stated that Pakistan has lost influence in Afghanistan to other regional powers, reflecting shifting geopolitical dynamics.

The remarks come amid a surge in deadly militant attacks across Pakistan, including a recent suicide bombing in Islamabad that killed 33 worshippers and wounded dozens.

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