Pakistan Issues Strong Demarche to Afghanistan After Deadly Terrorist Attack
Pakistan has issued a “strong demarche” to Afghanistan following a deadly terrorist attack on Bannu Cantonment, which resulted in the martyrdom of eight soldiers and injuries to many others. The attack, carried out by the Hafiz Gul Bahadur group based in Afghanistan, has heightened tensions between the two neighboring countries.
The Bannu Cantonment attack occurred in the early hours of July 15, when terrorists attempted to breach the facility’s perimeter.
Security forces successfully thwarted the attack, but the militants detonated an explosive-laden vehicle against the cantonment’s wall, leading to significant damage and casualties. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed that all 10 attackers were killed during the incident.
In response to the attack, Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the deputy head of mission from the Afghan embassy in Islamabad to deliver the strong demarche. The Foreign Office (FO) expressed grave concerns over the use of Afghan territory by terrorist groups like the Hafiz Gul Bahadur group and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) to launch attacks against Pakistan. The FO demanded that Afghanistan fully investigate the incident and take robust and effective action against the perpetrators to prevent future attacks.
Pakistan reiterated its serious concerns about the presence of terror outfits within Afghanistan that continue to threaten its security. The FO’s statement emphasized that such incidents undermine the spirit of bilateral relations between the two countries and pose a significant threat to regional peace and security.
The attack on Bannu Cantonment serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threat posed by terrorism. The ISPR praised the timely and effective response by security forces, which prevented a major catastrophe and saved countless innocent lives. The gallant and selfless actions of the security personnel reflect their unwavering resolve in the fight against terrorism.
This incident follows Pakistan’s previous demands for the extradition of terrorist Gul Bahadur, the leader of a faction of the outlawed TTP, from Afghanistan. In November 2023, Pakistan summoned the head of the Afghan diplomatic mission in Islamabad to address this issue.
The attack on Bannu Cantonment comes at a time when Islamabad is urging the Afghan Taliban administration in Kabul to prevent its soil from being used by banned outfits responsible for terrorist attacks against Pakistan. Last month, the Pakistani government launched “Operation Azm-e-Istehkam,” a renewed national anti-terror drive in response to the surge in terrorist attacks in recent months.
According to the Security Studies (CRSS) Annual Security report, Pakistan witnessed 380 violence-linked fatalities and 220 injuries among civilians, security personnel, and outlaws during the second quarter of 2024. The provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan, both bordering Afghanistan, accounted for nearly 92% of all fatalities and 87% of attacks during this period.
As Pakistan continues to combat the menace of terrorism, it remains steadfast in its commitment to uphold its security and protect its citizens against all threats. The country urges Afghanistan to take decisive action against terrorist groups operating from its territory to ensure regional peace and stability.
