- Premier Shehbaz Sharif condemns unprovoked Afghan aggression, pledges no compromise on defence
- Credits Field Marshal Asim Munir’s leadership for a ‘robust and effective reply,’ warning any future provocation will be met with full force
- Interior Minister meets PM Shehbaz, briefs him on law and order, counter-terrorism efforts
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday strongly condemned Afghanistan’s unprovoked aggression along the Pakistan border, vowing a firm and effective response to any provocation and reiterating that no compromise would be made on the country’s sovereignty and defence.
His statement came after the Pakistan Army took control of 19 Afghan border posts in a retaliatory operation against cross-border attacks.
Praising the professionalism and courage of Pakistan’s security forces, the prime minister said the nation stood united behind its defenders.
“We are proud of the professional capabilities of our armed forces,” he said. “Under the fearless leadership of Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, the Pakistan Army gave a robust and effective reply to Afghanistan’s aggression. Multiple Afghan posts were destroyed, forcing the attackers to retreat.”
Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that Pakistan’s defense remains impregnable, and any hostile act would be met with full force.
“Pakistan will not compromise on its sovereignty and defense. Any act of provocation will be met with a full and effective response,” he asserted. “Our defense is in strong hands. We know how to protect every inch of our homeland.”
The premier said that the entire nation stands firmly behind the armed forces, whose history is marked by resilience and sacrifice.
“The bravery shown by our forces once again demonstrates that no enemy can challenge Pakistan’s territorial integrity,” he said.
Raising concerns over terrorist activities originating from Afghan soil, the prime minister said Islamabad had repeatedly shared intelligence with Kabul regarding the presence of militant networks operating against Pakistan.
“Terrorist elements continue to operate from Afghanistan, carrying out attacks inside Pakistan,” he said. “We have provided evidence about the presence of groups such as Fitna al-Khawarij and Fitna al-Hindustan, which are being supported by elements within Afghanistan.”
He urged the interim Afghan government to prevent its territory from being used against Pakistan and to fulfil its commitments under international norms.
“Pakistan expects the Afghan authorities to take concrete action to ensure that its soil is not used for terrorism,” he added.
Interior minister calls on PM, reviews security situation
Later in the day, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to discuss the country’s internal security, law and order, and counter-terrorism measures. Naqvi briefed the prime minister on the steps being taken by the Interior Ministry to strengthen internal security and enhance coordination among law enforcement agencies.
The Prime Minister commended the efforts of the Interior Ministry and directed that effective, coordinated measures continue to protect citizens’ lives and property.
“Safeguarding the people, upholding the rule of law, and eradicating terrorism remain the government’s top priorities,” he reaffirmed.