Leaked footage reveals the Afghan Taliban’s alleged support for TTP, raising concerns over regional stability and the effectiveness of counter-terrorism efforts.
Recently leaked footage has brought to light a concerning revelation: certain factions within the Afghan Taliban are allegedly providing support to terrorists affiliated with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The video circulated widely on social media, depicts an Afghan Taliban commander named Yahya orchestrating training and planning an attack on Pakistani security forces alongside militants purportedly belonging to the Hafiz Gul Bahadur faction of the TTP, inside a tent situated in the Dangar Lgad area of Paktika province, Afghanistan.
In the video, Yahya communicates with armed individuals, including a suicide bomber, in Pashto, expressing their readiness to seek vengeance against Pakistan. He proceeds to outline the specifics of an upcoming attack, detailing the deployment of six rocket launchers, six assistants, two laser operators and their assistants, as well as a sniper.
Yahya asserts that “all Mujahideen are prepared to follow the orders of Amir al-Mu’minin” and are committed to combatting Pakistan. He provides instructions on how the militants should infiltrate Pakistan and emphasizes not leaving any wounded individuals behind.
This damning evidence underscores Pakistan’s long-standing assertions regarding the Afghan Taliban’s complicity in sheltering and aiding terrorists targeting Pakistan. Despite consistent calls from Pakistan, the Afghan Interim government has failed to curb the infiltration of terrorists into Pakistan, highlighting a severe lack of control over Afghan territory.
Experts warn that the unimpeded use of Afghan soil for orchestrating attacks against Pakistan not only poses a grave threat to Pakistan’s security but also violates international agreements. Despite Pakistan’s efforts to engage with the Afghan Interim government on this matter, tangible progress remains elusive.
Pakistan’s recent aerial raid on hideouts belonging to the Hafiz Gul Bahadur group inside Afghanistan further emphasizes the urgency of addressing this issue. However, this move has drawn a stern warning from the Afghan Taliban, signalling potential reprisals against Pakistan.
The situation raises serious questions about the Afghan Interim government’s ability to rein in terrorist activities within its borders and underscores the need for greater cooperation between Afghanistan and Pakistan in combating terrorism. With tensions escalating between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban, it remains to be seen how both sides respond to the recent development.
While calls for the Taliban to dissociate from their ideological offshoots persist, the reality on the ground suggests a deeply entrenched network of alliances, fueled by historical grievances, ideological affinity, and strategic calculations.
Achieving lasting peace in the region will require not only diplomatic efforts but also addressing the root causes of extremism and terrorism, including socio-economic disparities, political grievances, and the erosion of state authority. Additionally, fostering constructive dialogue and cooperation between Afghanistan and Pakistan, backed by robust international support, can pave the way for meaningful progress in countering terrorism and promoting regional security.
As the situation continues to evolve, stakeholders must remain vigilant and adaptable, recognising that sustainable peace will require a multipronged approach that goes beyond mere rhetoric and addresses the complex realities on the ground. Only through comprehensive and inclusive strategies can the region hope to overcome the scourge of terrorism and pave the way for a more peaceful and prosperous future.
Reference: https://tribune.com.pk/story/2460417/video-exposes-taliban-support-for-ttp
