Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has issued a strong statement, asserting that Afghanistan is providing sanctuary to terrorists and that Pakistan should be prepared to take action inside Afghan territory if necessary.

Speaking on the issue of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), he emphasised that Pakistan has repeatedly engaged with Afghanistan on the matter but warned that maintaining a soft approach could pose a serious threat to national security.

“The enemy must be pursued wherever they are,” Asif declared, making it clear that those opposing cross-border action against militants are acting against Pakistan’s national interests.

He criticised those who suggest that Pakistan should not follow terrorists into Afghanistan, calling their stance detrimental to the country’s security.

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Asif further claimed that the TTP was deliberately brought back three years ago to function as a private militia, accusing the previous government of either being inactive or deeply corrupt. He stressed that Pakistan must address its governance vacuum, as the military is already engaged in safeguarding both internal and external borders.

Commenting on political developments, Asif revealed that a significant faction of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) had expressed a willingness to participate in discussions. He also suggested that unresolved issues with PTI’s founder were being settled behind the scenes.

His remarks reflect growing concerns within Pakistan’s leadership over the threat posed by cross-border militancy and underline the possibility of more aggressive counterterrorism measures in the near future.