President Asif Ali Zardari condemned drone attacks carried out by Afghan Taliban elements targeting Pakistani civilians across the country on Saturday, describing them as a provocative act by an “illegitimate regime” that had exceeded its red line. The president expressed his best wishes for those injured or struck by debris from these strikes in Quetta, Kohat, and Rawalpindi.
Speaking through the President’s Secretariat, Zardari stated: “The Taliban regime of Afghanistan, installed through terror and force, continues to ignore its obligations not to serve as safe havens for terrorist groups. Their recent attacks are a brazen challenge to Pakistan’s efforts toward peace and stability in the region.”
Zardari highlighted the timing of these strikes, asserting that they occurred during Pakistan’s critical engagements aimed at promoting peace and stability in the Gulf region and West Asia. He maintained that the regime’s rhetoric about seeking negotiations with friendly nations contradicted their actions.
“Crossing this red line has brought severe repercussions,” Zardai said. “Pakistan will not tolerate its civilians being targeted, nor will Afghan soil be used for terrorism against our neighbors.”
The president underscored Pakistan’s commitment to national security and affirmed the readiness of armed forces and security institutions to defend the country. His sentiments echoed on social media platforms.
Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported that the military intercepted rudimentary drones launched by the Afghan Taliban, attempting to harass civilian populations in multiple cities. The defense of these intercepts was attributed to a combination of defensive measures and early detection capabilities before the drones could reach their targets.
However, debris from intercepted drones struck civilians, resulting in injuries across Quetta, Kohat, and Rawalpindi. According to ISPR’s statement, two children were injured in Quetta, one civilian each in Kohat and Rawalpindi. All victims received immediate medical attention, with authorities reporting that they are currently stable.
Zardai reiterated Pakistan’s stance: “Pakistan will defend its people against any threats.”
The Afghan Taliban regime has brought severe consequences upon itself by crossing this red line,” Zardai declared. The president urged the international community to hold the regime accountable for these actions.