ISPR Denies Pakistan Conducted Airstrikes in Afghanistan has emerged as a top trending headline amid rising cross-border tensions. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) clarified Pakistan’s position, rejecting claims of military action inside Afghan territory and emphasizing its commitment to regional stability.
ISPR Director General Lt-Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry addressed senior journalists, stating that Pakistan has a strict anti-terrorism policy and does not target Afghan civilians. His remarks came after Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid alleged that Pakistan carried out airstrikes in Khost, Kunar, and Paktika provinces.
Lt-Gen Sharif Chaudhry called these claims “incorrect and misleading,” emphasizing that Pakistan seeks to eliminate terrorists, not harm the Afghan population. He said groups operating from Afghan soil continue to launch attacks against Pakistan, using weapons left behind by U.S. forces.
Cross-Border Militancy Remains a Concern
The ISPR chief noted that cross-border attacks are a persistent security threat for Pakistan. “Our only demand is the elimination of terrorists,” he said, urging Kabul to prevent Afghan soil from being used against Pakistan. He stressed that dialogue remains the preferred solution, but Afghan authorities have not delivered meaningful outcomes.
Recent efforts included talks mediated by Turkey and Qatar in Istanbul. Pakistan proposed a joint monitoring and verification mechanism to track militant activity, but officials reported that the discussions yielded no concrete assurances.
Lt-Gen Sharif Chaudhry also addressed queries about the court martial of former intelligence official Lt-Gen (retd) Faiz Hameed. He clarified that the issue is strictly legal and judicial and urged media and analysts to avoid speculation.
Pakistan continues to emphasize its non-hostile stance toward Afghanistan. The DG ISPR reiterated that Islamabad’s concern lies solely with terrorists, particularly the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and affiliated groups responsible for repeated attacks inside Pakistan. Diplomatic engagement continues despite rising tensions and repeated cross-border incidents.
