Pakistan Responds Cautiously to Afghan Clerics’ Pledge on Cross-Border Militancy
Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry has cautiously welcomed a recent resolution by religious scholars in Afghanistan, which stresses that Afghan soil must not be used against other nations, including Pakistan. Ministry spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said on Thursday, December 10, that while similar commitments have been made in the past by Afghan officials or religious bodies, none have been effectively implemented.
The resolution was issued at the conclusion of a major clerical assembly held in Kabul, attended by over a thousand Islamic scholars. The document emphasized the protection of Afghanistan’s independence, adherence to Islamic values, and resistance to foreign aggression, which it described as “a sacred jihad.”
The resolution also stated that no individual or group has the right to use Afghan territory for military operations against any foreign country.
It further urged the Taliban administration to fulfill its religious and national responsibilities by preventing individuals or groups from leaving the country to wage war beyond its borders. This call comes amid ongoing challenges faced by the Taliban in fully controlling military activities and the movements of armed groups within Afghanistan.
Analysts believe Islamabad’s cautious stance reflects Pakistan’s persistent skepticism toward Taliban promises—particularly those related to curbing the operations of groups that could threaten security along Pakistan’s eastern border.
