PROVINCE REPORT
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has strongly condemned the terrorist attack on civilians and police officials offering Friday prayers in Kohat, urging the Afghan Taliban regime to take credible and verifiable action against terrorist networks allegedly operating from Afghan territory.
In a statement, Pakistan said the attack reflected the continuing threat posed by terrorism and stressed that there could be no justification for targeting civilians and police personnel engaged in prayers.
The statement further alleged that the attack was carried out by militants linked to Fitna al-Khawarij, with roots in Afghanistan, and reiterated Pakistan’s concerns about the use of Afghan territory by terrorist groups to plan and launch attacks inside the country.
Pakistan criticised Afghan Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid for threatening a “crushing response” and called on the Afghan Taliban to dismantle terrorist sanctuaries, disrupt recruitment and training networks, and prevent cross-border terrorism.
The statement said Pakistan had repeatedly conveyed its security concerns to the Afghan Taliban regime and its interlocutors, adding that condemnation of terrorism must be accompanied by concrete and sustained action.
Pakistan also noted the Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ condemnation of the Kohat attack and expression of sympathy for the victims’ families, while stressing the need for practical counterterrorism measures.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting its citizens, territory and sovereignty, Pakistan said it would take all necessary measures in accordance with international law to eliminate terrorist threats. It also urged the international community to press the Afghan Taliban regime to take verifiable action against terrorist groups.
