Pakistan has urged the United Nations to take stronger action against militant groups operating out of Afghanistan, saying terrorism linked to Afghan territory has intensified in recent years and now threatens not only Pakistan but the wider region.
Proxy Militant Groups Operating from Afghanistan
Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Pakistan’s ambassador to the UN, stated that several proxy militant organisations have gained renewed momentum since the Taliban returned to power in Kabul, while Speaking at a UN Security Council session related to threats to international peace caused by terrorism,
He named Fitna al Khawarij TTP and Fitna al Hindustan BLA, including its Majeed Brigade, saying the groups are being backed from abroad and funded by foreign sources. According to Ahmad, these organisations are working with near-total freedom from Afghan soil and have been involved in deadly attacks inside Pakistan, with what he described as support from Pakistan’s eastern neighbour.
“These groups are not just Pakistan’s problem anymore,” Ahmad told the council, adding that recent incidents in Central Asia close to Afghanistan’s borders show the threat is spreading beyond one country.
He also raised concerns over billions of dollars worth of military equipment left behind after foreign forces withdrew from Afghanistan, warning that such weapons could easily end up in terrorist hands if not properly secured.
International Action Needed to Prevent Regional Instability
The ambassador said there must be accountability for external actors who help finance, arm or enable militant groups, including their proxy networks inside Afghanistan. He called on the international community to identify and confront those destabilising forces.
Pakistan is committed to global counterterrorism efforts and will also continue supporting the multilateral initiatives which are truly aimed at developing a broader and more coordinated strategic plan to tackle extremism in different parts. He also stressed upon the aspect that defeating terrorism requires collective action and not only isolated responses, and urged countries to work together through cooperation and the responsibility they share.
Pakistan is engaging and with international partners and is also pushing for detailed measures that will address the root causes of terrorism and would also prevent militant groups from regrouping, Mr Ahmed stated. The remarks come when there is growing concern over security in and around the areas in Afghanistan, and at this time Islamabad also repeatedly warned that unchecked militancy could lead to undermined stability across the South and Central Asia in the coming future.
Source: Radio Pakistan