Cross-border attacks and infiltration from Afghanistan have become routine, affecting Pakistan, Iran and Central Asian states, according to a report published by the US-based journal Eurasia Review.
The report states that Afghanistan has increasingly turned into a centre for armed groups and cross-border criminal activity, posing serious security challenges for neighbouring countries. Citing United Nations data, the journal noted that more than 20 terrorist organisations are currently active inside Afghanistan.
According to the report, the United Nations estimates that nearly 13,000 foreign fighters are present in the country, further compounding regional instability and security risks.
The findings echo Pakistan’s long-standing concerns over the use of Afghan soil for militant activities targeting neighbouring states.
A day earlier, during a weekly news briefing in Islamabad, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi said that evidence of the presence of Islamic State in Afghanistan had already been shared with international partners.
He stressed that Pakistan does not want Afghan territory to be used against it and reiterated Islamabad’s position on regional peace and stability. Andrabi added that the mastermind behind recent ISIS attacks was based in Afghanistan, warning that Pakistan reserves the right to defend itself against any threat to its security.
The Eurasia Review report underscores growing international concern over militancy, cross-border infiltration and terrorism emanating from Afghanistan, calling it a challenge not only for the region but also for global security.
