Pakistan military kills 30 terrorists close to the Afghanistan border in North Waziristan, a week after a fatal suicide attack killed 16 troops. The Pakistan military says the attackers were from the Pakistan Taliban or its affiliated organisations and blames both India and Afghanistan for facilitating cross-border terrorism.
Russia, on its part, has emerged as the first country to officially accept the Taliban-led administration in Kabul, further adding to regional complexity.
Border Clash Follows Deadly Attack
Pakistan’s armed forces reported on Friday, July 4, that they killed 30 militants who tried to infiltrate from Afghanistan over the last three days. The operation came after a deadly suicide attack in North Waziristan last week killed 16 soldiers. The Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), also referred to as the Pakistan Taliban, took responsibility for that attack.
The military called the recent attempt at infiltration a “potential catastrophe” that the soldiers had foiled. “The security forces exhibited top-notch professionalism, high alertness, and readiness,” quoted a statement released by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). It further said that huge stocks of weapons, ammunition, and explosives were also recovered during the operation.
Pakistan Blames India and Afghanistan
Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif had hailed the troops for having foiled the militant infiltration. He also accused both India and Afghanistan of harboring and subsidizing terrorist organizations that attack Pakistan.
The Pakistani forces also accused India of supporting the TTP and its splinter groups, indicating an extensive partnership in a regional plan to destabilize Pakistan. Islamabad has consistently faulted Kabul for not preventing such organizations from operating along the border.
Russia Recognises Taliban Government
In another turn of events for the region’s geopolitics, Russia formally recognised the Taliban as Afghanistan’s rightful government. On Thursday, Moscow received the credentials of an incoming Afghan ambassador.
Russia’s foreign ministry stated that the move would strengthen bilateral relations and foster cooperation in several fields. This step makes Russia the first nation to officially recognize the Taliban government, which took office following the US withdrawal four years ago.
The border continues to be a flashpoint as Islamabad struggles with increasing attacks. With 30 militants killed and accusations flying, Pakistan-India, as well as Pakistan-Afghanistan relations, could become worse.
Meanwhile, Russia’s official entry into the world of Taliban diplomacy might reorient diplomatic equations in South and Central Asia.