New Delhi: Amid rising security challenges at home, Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has accused India of using Afghanistan as a proxy to destabilise Pakistan. In an interview with a private TV channel, Asif claimed that recent cross-border terror attacks from Afghan territory were being carried out “at India’s behest.” He warned that any attempt by India to “erase the humiliation of its past defeat” through Kabul would have consequences for both India and Afghanistan.
His comments follow Afghan Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi’s high-profile visit to New Delhi, which has reportedly frustrated Pakistani officials. Asif questioned whether Muttaqi was “speaking only with India’s permission,” indicating fears of shifting regional alliances.
Despite the harsh rhetoric, Asif said Pakistan was open to dialogue but criticised the Afghan Taliban for failing to curb militant groups like the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). He claimed the Taliban asked for money in exchange for relocating terrorist sanctuaries, which Islamabad rejected due to a lack of trust.
The Defence Minister also blamed former ISI chief General Faiz Hameed and ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan for resettling 4,000–5,000 TTP fighters in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, accusing them of undermining national security.
Earlier, Pakistan’s military spokesperson also accused India of backing anti-Pakistan elements in Afghanistan. These coordinated statements come amid criticism of Pakistan’s inability to control militant violence and its weakening ties with the Taliban.
Asif also defended the ongoing mass deportation of Afghan refugees, calling Afghanistan “Pakistan’s number one enemy” and alleging that Afghan nationals have “betrayed” the hospitality extended to them.
Responding from Delhi, Afghan FM Muttaqi warned Pakistan against provocation, stating, “Stop playing games with Afghanistan. History shows it doesn’t end well.” He urged diplomacy over confrontation as tensions escalate between the neighbours.
