ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s top political leadership has reiterated that the country’s security and territorial integrity are beyond compromise amid heightened tensions along the Pakistan–Afghanistan border.
Shehbaz Sharif and Asif Ali Zardari issued separate statements underscoring the nation’s determination to respond firmly to any aggression following recent cross-border clashes with Afghan Taliban forces.
The statements came after Pakistan’s military launched Operation Ghazab-lil-Haq, described by officials as a response to what they termed unprovoked actions from the Taliban side of the border. Security sources said multiple Taliban positions were destroyed during the operation, and claimed that white flags were raised at several locations after Pakistan’s retaliatory strikes.
According to officials, Pakistani forces employed artillery and quadcopters to target Taliban strongholds, significantly reducing their operational capacity.
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar stated that the coordinated action inflicted heavy losses, with reports claiming over 100 Taliban fighters were killed and many others injured.
In his remarks, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stressed that Pakistan’s defence would not be compromised under any circumstances. He said the armed forces, backed by the nation, are fully prepared to safeguard the country’s borders and citizens. He also praised the military’s professionalism under the leadership of Chief of Defence Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, noting that the forces remain equipped and ready to counter both internal and external threats.
“Pakistan has always advocated peace,” the premier said, “but our sovereignty is inviolable, and any hostile act will receive a decisive response.”
President Zardari echoed similar sentiments in a message shared on social media, warning that Pakistan’s desire for peace should not be misconstrued as weakness. He said the armed forces possess the capability and resolve to respond comprehensively to any threat.
‘Open war,’ says defence minister
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif described the situation as having escalated beyond restraint, asserting that national security would not be compromised. He expressed disappointment that hopes for regional stability following NATO’s withdrawal from Afghanistan had not materialised.
Asif accused the Taliban administration of allowing Afghan territory to be used by hostile elements and reiterated Pakistan’s longstanding support for Afghanistan, including hosting millions of refugees over decades.
“Our patience has limits,” he said, adding that Pakistan’s response would be decisive. “We are neighbours, and we know the realities on the ground.”
Strong condemnation from interior ministry
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi condemned what he described as attempts to target civilians, calling such actions unacceptable. He praised the armed forces for their swift and effective response, emphasising that the nation stands united behind them.
Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry also confirmed that a large-scale operation had been launched, stating that repeated diplomatic engagements with the Taliban leadership had failed to yield positive outcomes. He claimed that individuals involved in attacks inside Pakistan were neutralised during the strikes.
‘Patience should not be seen as weakness’
National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq lauded the security forces for their prompt action. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to regional stability while warning that continued provocations would be met with firm countermeasures.
The unified message from the country’s civilian and military leadership signals a hardened stance, making clear that while Pakistan continues to advocate peace, it will not tolerate threats to its sovereignty or security.
