Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai, Afghanistan’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs, recently issued a fiery statement against Pakistan. Speaking at a program in Kabul, he warned Pakistan not to test Afghanistan’s patience. In an almost comical analogy, Stanikzai claimed that Afghanistan’s fighters are like “atomic bombs.”
He mocked Pakistan’s advanced weaponry and missile technology. Referring to missiles like Ghaznavi, Abdali, and Babur, Stanikzai remarked, “You named your missiles Ahmad and Mahmood, but we have Ahmad and Mahmood here with us. Our land is full of Abdalis, Ghaznavis, and Baburs—each one of them is like an atomic bomb.”
Pakistan, however, remains unshaken by such rhetoric. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, addressing security officials, highlighted Pakistan’s robust response to recent border provocations. He noted, “A few days ago, there was an attack on Pakistan from the other side, and a crushing response was given to them.” The Prime Minister also pointed out that conspiracies against Pakistan in regions like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan are backed by known forces.
Afghanistan’s attempt to intimidate Pakistan with exaggerated claims about fighters being “atomic bombs” seems laughable in light of Pakistan’s military strength. Pakistan boasts advanced missile systems, sophisticated air defense, and one of the most professional armies in the world. Afghanistan’s interim government, struggling to manage internal chaos, seems far from being in a position to challenge a nuclear power like Pakistan.
Aziz Maharaj, a political analyst, suggested dialogue as the solution. “Both nations need to address issues through negotiation. Violence and war will not benefit either side,” he said. While dialogue may seem logical, Pakistan’s military might ensures it can defend its borders and interests decisively.
The current rise in tensions stems from Pakistan’s recent aerial strikes in Paktika Province’s Bermal District. These operations were a response to cross-border aggression. Pakistan’s capability to respond decisively sends a clear message: hollow threats and reckless provocations from Afghanistan will not intimidate Pakistan.
In the grand scheme of things, Afghanistan’s statements seem more about saving face than posing any real threat. Pakistan’s superior military power and strategic capabilities ensure its sovereignty remains intact, regardless of its neighbor’s fiery words.
