ISLAMABAD — In a remote region near the northwestern border, Pakistani security forces reported the killing of 16 militants on Sunday. The group was intercepted while attempting to cross into Pakistan from the neighboring Afghanistan.
According to a military statement, the militants referred to as the “Khwarij” – a term used by the government for the Pakistani Taliban – tried to enter through Ghulam Khan, which serves as a border town in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.
Pakistan has consistently called on Afghanistan to implement more robust border management strategies. Tensions arise from Pakistan’s frequent accusations towards the Afghan Taliban, claiming they overlook militant activities near the shared border. However, Afghan authorities refute these allegations.
The military emphasized that the Afghan government is anticipated to honor its commitment by preventing the use of its territory by militants aiming to conduct terrorist activities against Pakistan. This ongoing issue remains a point of contention between the neighboring nations.
Recently, Pakistan has experienced an increase in attacks orchestrated by the Pakistani Taliban, known officially as Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The TTP, although distinct from the Afghan Taliban, share an alliance and have gained confidence since the latter assumed power in Afghanistan in 2021. Following this political shift, numerous TTP leaders and their combatants have taken refuge across the border.