According to Minister for Information and Broadcasting Ataullah Tarar, since the launch of Operation Ghazab-lil-Haq, 226 Afghan check posts have been destroyed and 35 others captured by Pakistani security forces; one hundred and ninety-eight tanks, armoured vehicles and artillery guns have been destroyed, and 56 locations across Afghanistan have been effectively targeted by air strikes.

Security sources also claim that in their latest assault against Fitna al-Khawaraj and Fitna al-Hindustan, they have annihilated 50 hideouts at different locations. The strikes were carried out in the Qila Saifullah, Chaman, Sambaz, Ghudwana, Jani and Ghaznali sectors. These operations continue relentlessly.

It is an undeniable reality that Pakistan has always vied for good neighbourly relations with Afghanistan and viewed the desired bonhomie with her as a prerequisite for peace in the region and a catalyst for shared regional prosperity. It has tried to engage Kabul through bilateral channels, participated in quadrilateral and regional formats involving China, Russia and Iran, and welcomed mediation efforts by countries such as Turkiye and Qatar.

But regrettably all these initiatives, and the fundamental Pakistani demand from the Taliban regime not to allow their territory to be used by terrorist entities, remain unfulfilled. Not only that, the Taliban regime has also been attacking Pakistani security posts along the Pak-Afghan border. It committed the first indiscretion in this regard last October, invoking a kinetic response from Pakistan. However, feeling the heat, the Taliban appealed for a ceasefire and Qatar and Turkiye attempted mediation. The two rounds of talks failed to produce the desired results.

The current situation is also a sequel to the unprovoked Taliban aggression against Pakistani security posts. This left no option for Pakistan other than taking decisive military action against the Taliban regime and the terrorist entities based on Afghan soil. By remaining oblivious to repeated diplomatic efforts and adopting an aggressive posture towards Pakistan, the Taliban regime actually asked for it. The operation aimed at dismantling militant infrastructure and destroying stockpiles of weapons left behind by US and NATO forces after their withdrawal from Afghanistan is an indication of Pakistan’s unflinching resolve to act unilaterally in the backdrop of failed diplomatic efforts. Operation Ghazab-lil-Haq justifiably represents a shift in the calculus.

The core of Pakistan’s concern remains the presence and operational freedom of groups such as the TTP, BLA, the Majeed Brigade, Daesh-Khorasan, Al-Qaeda and the East Turkestan Islamic Movement. These terrorist outfits continue to enjoy safe havens inside Afghanistan, using them to plan and launch infiltration, suicide bombings and violent attacks across the border.

Pakistan’s permanent representative at the UNSC, Asim Iftikhar, was right to reiterate in the UNSC session that elements within the Afghan Taliban regime are showing “complicity and active support” for terrorist outfits targeting neighbouring states, including Pakistan, posing a danger to regional security.

The fact is that other regional countries are also wary of Afghanistan once again becoming a hub for transnational militancy. This should serve as a wake-up call for the Taliban regime. They must realise that changing course is imperative for their quest for legitimacy and recognition by the international community. It will not be possible if militant groups are allowed to operate with impunity. The regime must also recognise that regional stability is a prerequisite for its own survival and economic sustainability. Credible action against terrorist networks would be the first step towards rebuilding trust with neighbours and the wider international community.

The kinetic action against the Taliban regime and the terrorist organisations based in Afghanistan seems to have created an impact, as reflected in the change in their rhetoric. Initially they warned of dire consequences; now they are talking about reconciliation and the resolution of the crisis through dialogue.

Some friendly and regional countries are also making efforts to find a solution to the conflict through diplomatic channels. While their initiative is a welcome move, Pakistan should make them understand that in view of the past track record of the Taliban regime they cannot be trusted merely on the basis of promises unless they neutralise these terrorist elements and hand over their leaders to Pakistan. It is a now-or-never opportunity for Pakistan. Diplomacy can be given a chance for recalibrating future relations with Afghanistan after achieving the objectives of Operation Ghazab-lil-Haq.

It is also an opportunity for the Taliban regime to atone for its past follies by fulfilling its commitments under the Doha Agreement. It simply cannot afford international isolation for an indefinite period, as it would prove disastrous for both the regime and the country. The people of Afghanistan have endured wars and instability for the last forty years and they need a break from it. The regime owes it to them to create a peaceful environment in the country. Living in peace with Pakistan and regional countries is an irrefutable imperative. Pakistan and the region cannot risk Afghanistan becoming a rogue-state territory. It would be a strategic risk with debilitating consequences for the entire region.

Terrorism poses an existential threat to Pakistan. Hence its elimination remains the top priority of the state because there can be no compromise on security. It is indeed a very complex challenge for Pakistan. The situation demands impregnable national unity and unqualified support for the security forces, which are rendering unparalleled sacrifices to safeguard the future of the country. The rigours of internal politics should not be allowed to take precedence over national interests. Those who are consciously or unconsciously involved in activities that malign state institutions, especially the security forces, need to reflect seriously on their conduct.

Malik Muhammad AshrafThe writer is a freelance columnist. He can be reached at ashpak10@gmail.com

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