Pakistan summoned a Taliban diplomat after a deadly car bombing in Bajaur killed 11 soldiers, escalating tensions over cross-border militancy.
Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry summoned the Taliban’s deputy ambassador in Islamabad following a car bombing in Bajaur district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, that killed 11 soldiers.
Express Tribune reported Thursday, Febraury 19 that Islamabad formally conveyed its strong protest, condemning the attack and warning of serious regional security consequences.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Tahir Andrabi expressed deep concern over continued operations by Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), whose leadership is believed to be based in Afghanistan.
The ministry said Pakistan had received repeated assurances from Afghan authorities but saw “no significant or tangible action” to curb militant activities.
At least 11 Pakistani soldiers and 12 TTP fighters were killed Monday during a car bombing and subsequent clashes in Bajaur, underscoring rising instability.
Pakistan’s defense minister, Khawaja Asif, warned that airstrikes inside Afghanistan remain an option if militant groups continue launching cross-border attacks against Pakistan.
He said Islamabad will not hesitate to act again, stressing military options are available should Afghanistan territory be used against Pakistan.
The latest violence highlights growing strain between Islamabad and Kabul, with cross-border militancy threatening already fragile diplomatic and security ties.
