Khawaja Asif Condemns Irresponsible Statements, Presents Terrorism Casualty Data
Islamabad : Federal Defense Minister Khawaja Asif on Tuesday indicated that Pakistan may launch operations against terrorists based in Afghanistan before Ramadan, citing the continued cross-border attacks. In an interview, the senior Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) leader stressed that the persistence of terrorism emanating from Afghan soil necessitates a prompt response.
“If they are only spectators, then they are complicit,” Khawaja Asif said. “I cannot specify the exact timing, but we will respond as quickly as needed.” He noted that third-party negotiations are ongoing but warned that delays harm Pakistan, emphasizing that dialogue cannot continue while attacks occur on Pakistani territory.
The minister highlighted that the Afghan Taliban maintain some contact with the interim Afghan government. While written guarantees may not be provided, verbal assurances are possible. Khawaja Asif suggested that a coordinated regional guarantee from all neighboring countries, possibly linked to financial support, could help maintain peace in Afghanistan.
Speaking on domestic politics, he praised former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, saying, “Mian Sahib’s political journey is proof of his long-standing commitment. In 1993 and 1999, his political confidence was evident, and we have never compromised on our principles.”
During a National Assembly session, Khawaja Asif also condemned statements made by Leader of the Opposition Mahmood Khan Achakzai regarding the Pakistan Armed Forces, calling them “irresponsible.” He said, “The armed forces belong to the entire nation, not a province or district, and they sacrifice their lives in the fight against terrorism. Martyrs are our red line.” He added that while every citizen has the right to their opinions, attacks on national institutions undermine unity.
The defense minister presented detailed figures on terrorism-related casualties from 2021 to February 10, 2026. A total of 3,141 security personnel were martyred during counterterrorism operations, including 170 officers, 212 junior commissioned officers, and 2,759 rank-and-file soldiers. By province, Punjab recorded the highest number with 1,657 martyrs, followed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (534), Sindh (452), Azad Kashmir (234), Gilgit-Baltistan (161), and Balochistan (103).
Khawaja Asif underscored that these figures reflect the sacrifices made for national security. In Balochistan, security forces have killed over 200 terrorists during ongoing operations, which he described as essential for maintaining law and order.
Commenting on politics, Khawaja Asif remarked that some politicians focus on personal gains while changing party loyalties, contrasting this with the unwavering commitment of military personnel. He stressed that national interest must always take precedence over individual or political ambitions.
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