The Kabul Tribune (KT) — Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi said the Taliban’s military actions against Pakistan are being carried out to defend Afghanistan’s airspace, national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Muttaqi made the remarks Sunday evening during a meeting in Kabul with foreign diplomats and representatives of the United Nations, the European Union and other international organizations.
He claimed that Pakistani military attacks have continued for nearly two weeks and said Pakistan resumed strikes despite mediation efforts and a ceasefire arrangement.
According to Muttaqi, Pakistan carried out airstrikes in several areas of Afghanistan on Feb. 22 using drones and fighter jets, alleging that some civilian sites were also targeted.
He added that the Taliban had earlier handed over three Pakistani detainees to a delegation from Saudi Arabia on Feb. 17 as part of mediation efforts.
Muttaqi stressed that the Taliban do not seek to violate the territory of other countries or escalate the conflict, saying disputes should be resolved through diplomacy and negotiations.
He also said that throughout history Afghans have not surrendered to pressure or force and have made sacrifices for the independence of their country.
Muttaqi further expressed concern over the crisis in the Middle East and called on the international community to avoid coercive policies and military actions while respecting the sovereignty of nations.
The remarks come as clashes between Taliban forces and Pakistani troops along the border have intensified in recent days. Taliban officials say Pakistan has carried out attacks inside Afghanistan, while Pakistani authorities claim that militant groups have conducted activities against Pakistan from Afghan territory, prompting their military response.
