The Taliban in Afghanistan have denied the presence of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) on Afghan soil, rejecting claims made by Pakistan. Taliban Chief of Army Staff Fasihuddin Fitrat stated during a press conference in Kabul on Wednesday that Pakistan has not provided any evidence to back up its allegations about TTP’s presence in Afghanistan.
Fitrat accused Pakistan of blaming Afghanistan for its security failures. He insisted that TTP hideouts are located in areas administered by Pakistan, and from there, they launch attacks against the Pakistani military and government. “Everyone knows TTP hideouts are in Pakistan-administered areas,” he emphasized.
The Afghan Taliban official firmly stated that no evidence exists proving TTP’s presence in Afghanistan. He reiterated that the Islamic Emirate had promised not to allow attacks on any country from Afghan soil, and it is fulfilling this promise. “No one can prove that TTP has hideouts in Afghanistan,” Fitrat asserted.
Fitrat’s remarks followed a statement by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who claimed there was no doubt that TTP is operating from Afghanistan. Addressing the cabinet on Tuesday, Sharif said that Pakistan had communicated its concerns to the Afghan government and taken effective measures against terrorists.
Pakistan’s civil and military officials have repeatedly raised concerns over TTP’s increased attacks since the Taliban regained control in Afghanistan. However, the Taliban continue to deny these allegations, maintaining that TTP does not operate from their territory.
The ongoing blame game between the two neighboring countries highlights the strained relationship and security challenges both are facing. While Pakistan insists that TTP activities have surged since the Taliban took over, the Afghan Taliban remain firm in their denials, urging Pakistan to address its own internal security issues instead.
