The Afghan Taliban do not possess the capability to absorb the punishment that Pakistan can inflict in response to security threats emanating from Afghanistan, according to a warning issued by the military's spokesperson. In an interview with Reuters, Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry stated that Pakistan is fully prepared for attempts to test its operational readiness and has the capability to counter threats, including those involving drones.
According to Geo News, the ISPR DG stated that any drone capability possessed by the Afghan Taliban is not indigenous, asserting that such technology is being supplied by external sponsors. Lt Gen Chaudhry identified India as the biggest terror sponsor in the context of threats facing Pakistan, alleging that the Afghan Taliban and anti-Pakistan terrorist groups are acting as Indian proxies.
The military spokesperson stated that the Afghan Taliban regime is harbouring terrorist leaders and allowing armed groups to operate from Afghan soil against Pakistan. According to the interview, terrorist formations and weapons are coming from Afghanistan, and Afghan citizens as well as personnel of the Taliban regime have been identified among groups involved in attacks against Pakistan.
Background
According to Geo News, the ISPR DG recalled Pakistan's previous conflict with India, noting that New Delhi had sent dozens of sophisticated drones which Pakistan successfully countered and turned into dust. The spokesperson stated that Pakistan has since advanced further in its operational readiness. Addressing regional dynamics, the ISPR DG stated that Islamabad is not seeking Afghanistan's isolation and remains engaged with Kabul, but expects the Afghan Taliban to act like a state and prevent terrorism from its territory. He rejected allegations that Pakistan was hosting or coordinating anti-Taliban elements, while asserting that Afghanistan is currently producing only two products: terrorism and drugs.
Why it matters
For ordinary citizens in Pakistan, the statements highlight ongoing security concerns regarding cross-border terrorism and regional stability. The military's stance emphasizes a demand for state responsibility from Kabul to prevent attacks inside Pakistan, while advocating for regional and international engagement to press the Afghan Taliban to halt support for militant groups.