ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has reiterated its readiness to conduct further military strikes on Afghanistan if authorities in Kabul fail to provide credible assurances of peace, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif told France 24 on Wednesday.
Read More: At UN, Pakistan sounds alarm over rise in terror attacks from Afghan
The warning comes amid ongoing tensions along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. Last October, clashes erupted after attacks by the Afghan Taliban and allied militants on Pakistani border posts. The confrontations resulted in the deaths of over 200 Taliban and affiliated militants, while 23 Pakistani soldiers were martyred defending the border. Pakistan responded with precision strikes deep inside Afghanistan, targeting terrorist strongholds in Kandahar and Kabul, but efforts to reach a lasting ceasefire have stalled due to Kabul’s reluctance to act against terrorist outfits.
Asif accused India of waging a “proxy war” through militant attacks, claiming that New Delhi, Kabul, and militant groups are aligned in their efforts against Pakistan. He also stressed that Pakistan and India have had no direct or indirect contact since the May 2025 armed conflict, adding that war with India remains “a possibility.”
Taliban and India’s proxy war behind attacks in Pakistan: Defence Minister
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The defence minister addressed domestic security concerns, including a recent mosque bombing in Islamabad, attributing the persistence of terrorism in Pakistan to the “non-seriousness of the Kabul government” in curbing militant activity.
Regarding foreign policy, Asif ruled out normalising diplomatic relations with Israel, citing Pakistan’s commitment to an independent Palestinian state with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital. He suggested that ties with Israel might only be considered once Palestinians achieve self-determination.
Asif also spoke on the Gaza situation, noting Pakistan’s willingness to contribute to an international peace force if conditions are suitable. Highlighting Pakistan’s extensive experience in UN peacekeeping missions, he called participation a “good opportunity” to support efforts toward a two-state solution in the Middle East.
Read More: Pakistan seeks verifiable Afghan action on terrorism
The minister’s remarks underline Islamabad’s firm stance on regional security and its strategic approach to counterterrorism and diplomatic relations in South Asia and the Middle East.