Imran Wali Khan Criticizes Pakistan’s Dual Policy on Terrorism, Warns of Severe Consequences
Imran Wali Khan, leader of the Awami National Party (ANP) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, has once again criticized Pakistan’s past and current policies toward terrorism, warning that the continuation of a dual approach will bring more severe consequences. He emphasized that unless a clear and uncompromising stance is taken against terrorism, history will judge the actions of all parties involved.
Wali Khan stated that from 2021 to 2026, repeated warnings have been issued against formulating policies based on the hope of a “friendly government” coming to power in Afghanistan. According to him, experience has shown that such calculations have not only failed to bring security but have also complicated the situation further.
He asserted, “A terrorist never becomes a friend; a terrorist is only a terrorist.” He noted that elements once referred to as “strategic depth” or “friends” have now become targets of military operations, a change resulting from the previous unstable policies.
The ANP leader added that policies driven by ideological dependencies and short-term interests have caused the greatest harm to the people and the state of Pakistan. As a result of these approaches, many residents have been displaced, markets have suffered damage, and youth are living amid insecurity and uncertainty.
Wali Khan stressed that the responsibility of the Pakistani government is not merely to issue statements but to adopt firm and consistent principles against terrorism. He pointed out that terrorists have neither religion nor ethnicity; therefore, the fight against terrorism must be unconditional, resolute, and free from any concessions.
