Pakistan raises concerns over UNAMA report, demands action on terror safe havens

WEB DESK: Pakistan has expressed reservations regarding a recent report issued by the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), stating that a substantial portion of the information contained within it appears to rely heavily on positions presented by the Afghan Taliban authorities. Officials have indicated that this raises concerns about the accuracy and balance of certain conclusions, noting that independently verified and credible sources do not appear to have been sufficiently reflected in the assessment.

According to Pakistan’s position, the Afghan Taliban administration maintains close links with a number of terrorist organisations and is allowing Afghan territory to be used to conduct attacks against Pakistan. As a consequence of these activities, numerous civilians and security personnel in Pakistan have lost their lives. Pakistani officials further stated that Islamabad has made repeated diplomatic efforts, including initiatives facilitated through friendly countries, to address the matter; however, these engagements have yet to yield meaningful progress.

Pakistan stresses intelligence-led counter-terrorism operations

Pakistan has conveyed a clear message that the Afghan Taliban authorities must determine whether they intend to prioritise constructive relations with Pakistan or continue to provide sanctuary to militant groups. Officials emphasised that all counter-terrorism operations undertaken by Pakistan’s armed forces are conducted with precision, professionalism, and responsibility, and are based on credible and verifiable intelligence.

The statement further underscored that the protection of civilians remains a central priority for security forces during such operations, with extensive precautions taken to minimise the risk of casualties. Operations are reportedly directed at militant hideouts located in remote areas away from civilian populations, even at considerable distances from sensitive locations such as Kabul’s Green Zone.

Pakistan also expressed concern that the Afghan Taliban authorities are providing shelter and protection to terrorist elements, enabling them to establish safe havens and continue activities that pose a direct threat to regional stability and Pakistan’s national security.

Meanwhile, attention was drawn to a deadly terrorist attack that occurred today in Miranshah, which reportedly caused significant harm to innocent civilians, including children. Pakistan expressed the hope that the United Nations mission would report such incidents with equal seriousness and impartiality, thereby ensuring a balanced and accurate reflection of developments on the ground.

Islamabad reiterated its commitment to continued constructive cooperation with the United Nations and other international partners in pursuing effective and responsible measures to combat terrorism and promote lasting peace and stability in the region.