Pakistan’s defence leadership says the air strike option remains open if the Afghan government cannot stop militants using its territory to launch attacks, warning Kabul to secure peace or face consequences. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif linked recent terror violence in Pakistan to a proxy conflict he says involves both Afghanistan and India, asserting Islamabad will act decisively if threats continue.
In a televised interview, Asif stressed that Pakistan has repeatedly pushed for effective action against armed groups operating along the border, claiming banned outfits like Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Daesh and others find safe havens in Afghan territory. He said Pakistan wants peace but will not hesitate to exercise the air strike option again to protect its citizens if Kabul fails to guarantee stability.
Asif also accused Kabul of complicity, saying Afghan authorities admit they lack full control over militant factions. Islamabad says it has pursued diplomacy through talks in Istanbul, Doha and Kabul with little result. He warned that if Kabul genuinely wants peace, it should act now; otherwise, Pakistan’s readiness to use force remains.
The remarks come amid broader regional tensions, including a deadly suicide bombing in Islamabad that killed dozens and was linked to a network trained in Afghanistan. Pakistan also highlighted growing militant operations launched from the neighbouring country, reinforcing its long-standing security concerns.