Afghanistan Times
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KABUL – In a significant shift in policy, the interim Afghan government has initiated a crackdown on militants encouraging cross-border terrorist activities against Pakistan. This move marks the first time since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021 that Kabul has taken decisive action against groups operating from Afghan soil.
Pakistani officials have confirmed that the Taliban arrested approximately 200 individuals linked to the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), who were allegedly involved in planning and executing attacks on Pakistani territory. These arrests follow a series of deadly assaults, including the March 4 attack on Bannu Cantonment, which resulted in at least 16 deaths and over 30 injuries.
The crackdown has led to a notable decrease in cross-border terrorist activities, particularly suicide attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This development has paved the way for improved diplomatic relations between Islamabad and Kabul. In April, Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar visited Kabul—the first such visit in three years—where both nations agreed to measures aimed at enhancing bilateral trade and ensuring Afghan soil is not used for terrorism against Pakistan.
China has played a facilitative role in these developments, hosting a trilateral meeting between Pakistan and Afghanistan’s foreign ministers in Beijing on May 21. The meeting concluded with both sides expressing a willingness to upgrade diplomatic ties, including the exchange of ambassadors. This gesture underscores China’s strategic interest in fostering stability in the region.
While these steps are seen as positive, Pakistani officials emphasize the need for sustained and irreversible actions by the Afghan Taliban to ensure long-term peace and security along the border. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, with hopes that this newfound cooperation will lead to lasting stability in the region.
