Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Saturday reminded Afghan Taliban leader Sirajuddin Haqqani of Pakistan’s decades-long support for Afghanistan, urging Kabul to ensure its territory is not used against Pakistan. In a post on X, Asif said Pakistan had stood “heart and soul” with Afghan fighters during the Soviet–Afghan war and had hosted Haqqani and his family, along with millions of Afghan refugees, for decades. Recalling Historical Support The minister noted that Pakistan had supported Afghan factions during the anti-Soviet war and later provided logistical backing to NATO forces after the September 11 attacks, despite subsequently facing allegations of facilitating the Haqqani network. “We were asked about your location. Do you remember?” Asif wrote, urging Afghan leaders to reflect on past accusations made against Pakistan. He added that Pakistan had even facilitated reconciliation efforts among Afghan groups, including taking rival factions to Makkah for dialogue. Concerns Over Cross-Border Militancy Asif expressed concern that despite years of hospitality, Pakistan is now facing violence from groups allegedly operating from Afghan soil. “Why are you sheltering those who kill our innocent children and people?” he asked, alleging that militants targeting Pakistan are being protected. He said he had personally visited Kabul and urged Afghan authorities not to align with groups hostile to Pakistan, adding that Islamabad had been willing to extend assistance if required. Call for Peaceful Coexistence The defence minister emphasised that Pakistan seeks peaceful relations but would not tolerate its enemies being given refuge. “Live peacefully in your own home and let us live peacefully in ours,” he said, warning against allowing Afghan territory to be used for hostile activities. “Our tradition, culture and religion teach us to wish well for the home that provides refuge,” he added, concluding with “God is great. Pakistan Zindabad.” As tensions persist between Islamabad and Kabul, Asif’s remarks reflect growing frustration in Pakistan over alleged cross-border militant activity.
Kabul Repaid Pakistan’s Hospitality by Sheltering Killers, Says Khawaja Asif
