President Asif Ali Zardari on Sunday issued a stark warning over what he called a growing threat of terrorism emanating from Afghanistan saying groups operating from Afghan soil are endangering global peace. In a statement Zardari criticized the Taliban authorities arguing their policies have created conditions similar to or worse than pre-9/11 enabling terrorist organizations to expand and strike civilians worldwide.
His remarks followed a deadly attack on an imambargah in Islamabad that killed 36 people and injured more than 160 an assault claimed by the Islamic State (IS). Zardari thanked world leaders for their solidarity with Pakistan saying international support has provided comfort to the nation and strength to victims families.
Reiterating Pakistan’s resolve to combat terrorism and extremist ideologies Zardari maintained that no country can tackle the threat alone and called for coordinated global action. Drawing on Pakistan’s experience, he warned that allowing militant networks to operate across borders has worldwide ramifications for civilian safety.
Zardari accused certain neighboring states of offering space, funding, or technical assistance to militants which he said worsens regional instability. He also criticized India alleging support for the Taliban regime and claiming Indian backed proxies threaten Pakistan allegations echoed by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi. He urged the Taliban to prevent Afghan soil from being used for attacks against Pakistan.
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