Defense Minister Khawaja Asif disclosed the dismissal of Afghan nationals. He said two officers were expelled from the Pakistani Army as part of the country’s crackdown on illegal immigrants. Asif highlighted that the majority of Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terrorists reside in Afghanistan. He further said some were resettled in Pakistan during the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government. He mentioned briefing the National Assembly on this matter.
Asif clarified that while there has been no recent influx of Afghan nationals at the state level, infiltration attempts by militants persist.
The minister underscored the porous Pak-Afghan border, explaining how individuals can easily cross into Pakistan, acquire legal documentation, and even join the armed forces.
Asif revealed that he signed documents discharging Afghan recruits from the army, including a captain and a lieutenant.
He also recounted an incident where a soldier’s father confessed to Afghan citizenship and residency in Pakistan. He had his property and businesses in Quetta. Despite his ties, the individual was compelled to leave.
Emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts with the Afghan government, Asif mentioned presenting evidence of Afghan nationals’ involvement in terrorist activities during a visit by the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government.
Tensions escalated on Monday after Pakistan Air Force airstrikes targeted armed groups in border regions. The Taliban claimed civilian casualties, while Pakistan stated the strikes were aimed at militants.
Afghanistan’s interim government accused the airstrikes of hitting civilian homes in Paktika and Khost provinces.
Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid asserted that Afghanistan does not allow anyone to invade its territory. He drew on its history of resisting superpowers.
