Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the Afghan Chargé d’Affaires to deliver a formal demarche following the vehicle-borne IED attack on the Fateh Khel Police Post in Bannu District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, on 9 May 2026. The incident resulted in the martyrdom of 15 police constables and injuries to four others, including a civilian. The Pakistani side stated that a detailed investigation, supported by evidence collected and technical intelligence, indicates that the attack was masterminded by terrorists residing in Afghanistan. Pakistan reiterated its grave concern over the continued use of Afghan soil for terrorist activities against Pakistan and asserted that Islamabad reserves the right to respond decisively against the perpetrators. The discussions highlighted the presence of various terrorist organizations on Afghan soil and a permissive environment enabling their operations, which has been documented in reports by the UN Monitoring Team and other international bodies. The two-way message was that the fight against terrorism is a common cause, and the Afghan Taliban must honor their commitment not to allow their territory to be used for terrorism against other countries. Pakistan has repeatedly urged the Afghan Taliban regime to take concrete and verifiable action against Fitna-al-Khawarij, Fitna-al-Hindustan, and ISKP/Daesh elements operating from Afghan soil. Despite several rounds of talks mediated by friendly countries, the Afghan authorities have not delivered credible action against these groups. The demarche underscored that if the Taliban continue to harbour these outfits, Pakistan will not compromise on national security or the safety and protection of its citizens. Islamabad dated the outreach to 11 May 2026 and reiterated its stance that a stable, secure region requires verifiable steps from Kabul. Opinion: In my view, this crisis underscores the necessity of credible, monitorable steps rather than rhetoric in counterterrorism diplomacy. Cross-border security demands transparent cooperation, independent verification, and sustained regional engagement involving Pakistan, Afghanistan, and international partners. While Pakistan’s security concerns are legitimate and must be addressed, responses should be proportionate, lawful, and aimed at reducing threats to civilians rather than fueling escalation.
Source: Statement from @zarrar_11PK
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Published: May 11, 2026, 3:56 am
Editorial Note: This article is based on publicly available information and official statements. We strives for accuracy and fairness in all reporting.
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