The 37th report of the United Nations Security Council’s Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team paints a stark and unsettling picture of Afghanistan’s security environment — one that vindicates Pakistan’s longstanding concerns about cross-border terrorism and demonstrates why Islamabad’s defensive actions are justified. The UN report underscores that Afghanistan’s territory remains a “permissive environment” for multiple terrorist organisations, including the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Islamic State-Khorasan Province (ISKP), and others, posing direct threats to Pakistan and regional stability. 

For years, Pakistan has articulated a clear and consistent position: a sovereign Afghanistan must not become a sanctuary for militant groups that plan, train, and execute attacks across its borders. Islamabad’s appeals — both at bilateral levels and in multilateral forums — have repeatedly highlighted the operational freedom enjoyed by these outfits inside Afghan territory. The 37th Monitoring Team Report confirms this reality: the TTP “operates as one of the largest terrorist groups in Afghanistan,” with significant capabilities and continued attacks against Pakistan and its institutions. 

Afghan authorities have often denied the presence of militant groups or minimised their significance. These claims are now categorically dismissed by the UN monitoring mechanism. Across multiple reports, the team has repeatedly concluded........

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