Asif accuses Haqqani network of betrayal, demands clarification on Pakistan’s support

Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif has publicly accused figures linked to the Haqqani network of betraying decades of Pakistani support and allowing terrorists to operate from Afghan territory against Pakistan.

In an article on

“You were our guests; we offered hospitality to your families,” he wrote. “Millions of these guests are still on Pakistani soil earning a living. »

Asif said that during the anti-Soviet campaign, both sides pursued a common goal shaped by the United States.

Referring to the period after the September 11 attacks in the United States, he said Pakistan supported NATO operations in Afghanistan and played a facilitative role. However, he said Islamabad had been repeatedly accused by Washington of aiding the Haqqani network.

He challenged Haqqani leaders to publicly clarify whether allegations that Pakistan provided support to the network were true or false. “You tell the world,” he wrote.

The statement comes amid growing clashes between Pakistani and Afghan security forces. Pakistan says at least 331 Taliban terrorists have been killed in a major military operation launched after what it described as unprovoked cross-border attacks from Afghanistan.

Asif accused Afghan authorities of providing sanctuary to terrorists responsible for attacks inside Pakistan, including violence against civilians and children. He said he personally raised these concerns during a visit to Kabul and sought assurance that Afghan soil would not be used for hostile activities against Pakistan.

Although financial assistance was discussed, he said no guarantees were provided.

He urged current leaders to preserve the heritage associated with the Haqqani name and called for mutual non-interference between the two neighbors.

“We don’t ask you anything. You stay happy in your house; we stay happy in ours,” he wrote.

“Of course, make our enemies your home. But don’t join them in playing the role of enemy against us. Don’t let your land be used against us.”

“Our tradition, culture and religion teach us that we wish them well for the home we have found refuge in. Allahu Akbar. Pakistan Zindabad. Whether you remember it or not… Made in America Jihad.”