Pakistan Rejects India’s Counterterrorism Criticism as Absurd and Hypocritical
The Foreign Office of Pakistan issued a sharp response on Sunday, rejecting accusations leveled by Indian officials regarding counter-terrorism efforts inside Afghanistan. The spokesperson’s statement came in the wake of a critique from his Indian counterpart, who had accused Pakistan of causing civilian deaths through air strikes.
This diplomatic spat erupted after Pakistan launched “Operation Ghazab Lil Haq” almost two weeks ago. Following multiple attacks on various locations by Afghan Taliban forces, Islamabad responded with swift military retaliation. Both countries have been in tense relations along their border since the Afghan offensive.
Pakistan’s February air strikes were claimed to be targeting terrorists; however, it was also accused of failing to act against groups causing attacks within Pakistan. The ongoing conflict has affected multiple Afghan provinces, with violence reaching its worst level since October when more than 70 people lost their lives on both sides, and land borders have been largely closed.
In response, Islamabad’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Tahir Andrabi issued a statement emphasizing Pakistan’s legitimate counter-terrorism efforts:
“We condemn India for making absurd and unwarranted accusations regarding our actions,” the statement declared. “Pakistan has long targeted terrorist hideouts and support bases inside Afghanistan with precision.”
The spokesperson also criticized New Delhi’s active support and sponsorship of terror groups operating from Afghan soil, including Fitna-al-Khawarij and Fitna-al-Hindustan.
“India’s reaction reflects frustration at the destruction of its own terrorist franchise in Afghanistan,” said Andrabi. “India continues to violate international law and human rights, particularly in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).”
The Foreign Office further alleged that India had weaponized water, violating its treaty obligations.
“This is not only shameful but also indicative of the destabilizing role played by India in Afghanistan and beyond,” Andrabi added. “Pakistan remains committed to protecting its citizens within the bounds of international law.”
In a separate tweet thread on X, the spokesperson underscored Pakistan’s commitment:
“We continue to take all appropriate actions for self-defense and citizen protection as per international law, including UN Charter,” concluded the statement.
This diplomatic exchange underlines the deepening tensions between the two countries. As the situation continues, it remains crucial that both nations prioritize dialogue over confrontation to prevent further escalation and ensure regional stability.