WASHINGTON: Pakistan’s UN Ambassador Munir Akram has alerted the UN Security Council to the escalating threat of terrorism originating from Afghanistan, specifically highlighting the growing menace posed by Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
In a statement delivered on Wednesday, Akram described the TTP as rapidly evolving into an “umbrella organization” capable of regional destabilization. He warned that the group, which has intensified attacks on Pakistani security forces since breaking a ceasefire agreement in November 2022, is receiving full support from the Afghan Interim Government (AIG) and is a significant concern due to its links with Al-Qaeda.
Akram criticized the Afghan government for allowing the TTP to operate freely, despite repeated concerns from Islamabad. He emphasized the need for global vigilance regarding the TTP’s potential to fuel broader regional and global terrorist objectives.
Additionally, Akram condemned human rights abuses by the Afghan interim government, particularly against women and girls, and called for an end to these “backward measures” which he said violate fundamental rights.
Pakistan’s envoy also addressed the severe humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, noting that the Afghanistan Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan remains underfunded, with only 25% of the required funds secured. He urged the international community to provide unconditional aid to address the needs of 23.7 million Afghans requiring assistance.
Akram reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to supporting Afghanistan’s economic revival and regional connectivity projects while stressing that the Afghan government must meet its international obligations to avoid further instability.
The warning comes amid a rising number of terrorist attacks in Pakistan, with 59 incidents reported in August alone, a significant increase from the previous month. The TTP and other militant groups are believed to be behind many of these attacks.
