Concerns Rise as Foreign Weapons Fuel Terrorism

Concerns Rise as Foreign Weapons Fuel Terrorism

Fresh evidence of ‘foreign weapons’ allegedly transported from Afghanistan to Pakistan has reignited concerns over regional security and its link to a surge in terrorism within Pakistan. Over two decades, Pakistan’s battle against terrorism has been compounded by weapons purportedly left behind by the United States in Afghanistan, contributing to the recent uptick in terrorist activities.

Security forces have intensified intelligence-based operations across various districts, resulting in the elimination of several militants and the seizure of foreign weapons caches. Operations in Khyber and Balochistan districts led to the deaths of terrorists, including prominent figures, while recent actions in North Waziristan and Zhob district saw the confiscation of M16/A4 rifles, AK-47s, and other armaments.

The presence of foreign weaponry was also evident in the foiled assault by Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) terrorists on the Gwadar Port Authority Complex. Pentagon data revealed that a significant number of combat weapons provided to the Afghan military by the US were left behind during the 2021 withdrawal, contributing to regional instability.

Despite Pakistan’s efforts to address terrorism within its borders, evidence suggests that the Afghan regime continues to arm terrorist groups, including the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). In response, Pakistan has conducted intelligence-driven anti-terror operations in Afghanistan, targeting individuals responsible for cross-border attacks.

The surge in terrorism prompted the Prime Minister’s Office to reaffirm a zero-tolerance stance towards any cross-border aggression, emphasizing the need for regional cooperation to combat terrorism effectively.