In a dramatic escalation of regional hostility, Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif has publicly declared Afghanistan as Pakistan's "number one enemy," branding Afghan residents as "traitors." This scathing address to the National Assembly serves to justify the ongoing, controversial mass deportation of Afghan nationals and marks a significant hardening of Islamabad's stance. The soaring Pakistan-Afghanistan tensions now dominate diplomatic discourse in South Asia.
Why Did Pakistan Label Afghanistan the 'No. 1 Enemy'?
Khawaja Asif's incendiary remarks stem directly from Pakistan's deep-seated frustration over cross-border militant activities. The core reasons for this severe declaration include:
Militant Activity: Pakistan alleges that elements, including members of the Afghan Taliban and the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), are using Afghan soil to launch terrorist attacks on Pakistani territory.
Betrayal Accusation: Despite decades of hosting Afghan refugees, Asif accused Afghan residents of "betrayal," suggesting they have been complicit in anti-Pakistan militant actions.
Failed Diplomacy: Pakistani officials have previously visited Kabul to raise concerns about these militants, but according to Asif, they received only vague assurances from the Afghan authorities, exhausting Pakistan's patience.
Justifying Deportation: The declaration provides strong political and security cover for the ongoing mass deportation of undocumented Afghan nationals, a drive that began in October 2023, citing national security threats.
Pakistan has issued a clear warning: it will act against terrorist facilitators "wherever they are located."
Diplomatic Fallout: Afghanistan's Strong Condemnation
The escalation has triggered immediate and strong reactions from Kabul, further cementing the breakdown in relations.
Violation of Sovereignty: The Taliban government has vehemently condemned Pakistan's alleged airstrikes and military actions on Afghan soil, calling them a violation of international law and a hostile act against Afghan sovereignty.
Blaming Pakistan: The Taliban have directly blamed Pakistan for recent explosions in Kabul and Paktika province.
Warning: Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi has warned Pakistan not to test Afghan courage, asserting that Afghan territory will not be used against any neighboring country.
Regional Diplomacy: A Delicate Balance
While Pakistan-Afghanistan tensions simmer, the regional powers are attempting to navigate the crisis with controlled diplomacy, focusing on stability and counter-terrorism.
🇮🇳 India's Role
In a move viewed with deep unease by Islamabad, India warmly welcomed Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi on an official visit.
Deepening Ties: This high-level contact signals India's intent to expand diplomatic and cultural relations with the current Kabul government.
Countering Pakistan's Narrative: India insists that Afghan soil must not be used for terrorism against any country and is set to reopen its embassy in Kabul, deepening ties despite Pakistan’s objections to the increased Kabul-New Delhi proximity.
🌐 Moscow Format Consensus
Regional powers, including China, Russia, Iran, India, and Pakistan, participated in the Moscow Format consultations. The consensus reaffirmed two key principles:
Respect for Sovereignty: Support for Afghan sovereignty and a collective call for no foreign military bases or interference in Afghanistan.
Terrorism Control: An appeal to Afghanistan to eliminate terrorism from its soil to prevent threats to neighboring countries.
Conclusion: The Path Ahead for Pakistan-Afghanistan Tensions
The declaration of Afghanistan as the "number one enemy" marks a low point in bilateral relations and signals a complete shift in Pakistan's policy—from patron to aggressor. The ongoing military operations and mass deportations reflect Pakistan's determination to secure its border unilaterally. However, the diplomatic engagement between Kabul and regional powers, particularly India, suggests that Pakistan is losing strategic leverage. The future remains volatile, with both military and diplomatic measures shaping the next phase of the enduring Pakistan-Afghanistan tensions.
