By The South Asia Times

ISLAMABAD -  Pakistan on Friday said its armed forces carried out “precise operations” inside Afghanistan in response to what it described as repeated terrorist attacks and recent military provocations originating from Afghan territory.

In a statement issued by the Office of the Spokesperson, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan stated that the actions followed “repeated terrorist attacks by Fitna-al-Khawarij (TTP) and Fitna-al-Hindustan (BLA)” against Pakistan, as well as what it called “unwarranted and provocative actions” by the Taliban authorities on the night of February 26.

The statement said Pakistan’s defence forces targeted “terrorist outfits and their logistical support bases” and inflicted heavy losses. It described the operations as an exercise of Pakistan’s right to self-defence to ensure the safety of its citizens and regional stability.

“Any further provocations by the Taliban regime, or attempts by any terrorist group to undermine the security and welfare of the people of Pakistan, will be met with a measured, decisive and befitting response,” the statement warned.

Islamabad said it remains committed to peace and stability in the region and has pursued diplomatic engagement to address security concerns. However, it said that its “goodwill gestures and highly responsible approach were misconstrued,” resulting in increased attacks from Afghan soil.

The statement also alleged “active support and backing” of militant groups by the Taliban authorities and India.

Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have intensified in recent months amid a surge in cross-border attacks. Islamabad has long accused the outlawed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) of operating from sanctuaries inside Afghanistan and launching attacks against Pakistani security forces and civilians, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces.

Afghan Taliban consistently denied these accusations, insisting they do not allow Afghan territory to be used against any country.

The latest escalation follows a series of deadly incidents in Pakistan’s border regions, including suicide bombings and coordinated assaults on security posts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. In response, Pakistan has conducted cross-border strikes targeting TTP terrorists' hideouts in Afghanistan.

The Foreign Ministry reiterated Pakistan’s “strong resolve and determination to uproot the menace of terrorism emanating from Afghanistan” and called on the Afghan authorities to end what it described as impunity for militant groups operating from their territory.

There was no immediate response from Kabul to the latest statement.