Afghan soil must not be used for terrorism, Pakistan tells UN
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has unanimously agreed to extend the mandate of the Monitoring Team overseeing sanctions related to Afghanistan, including those targeting the Taliban, for another twelve months. The resolution, extending the mandate until February 17, 2027, was adopted on Friday with the support of all 15 Council members, including Pakistan and was drafted by the United States.
Pakistan’s Concerns and Calls for Action
During the UNSC meeting, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, reiterated concerns regarding the presence of terrorist groups operating within Afghanistan. Specifically, Ambassador Ahmad cited Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its Majeed Brigade, Islamic State Khorasan (ISIL-K), and Al Qaeda as ongoing threats. Pakistan also urged preventative measures against “external spoilers” who might exploit the situation.
A Clear Message to the Taliban
According to highlights of Ambassador Ahmad’s remarks shared on X, the UNSC’s decision sends a clear message to the Taliban authorities: Afghan territory should not be used to threaten or attack any country. The Council also expects all member states to prevent terrorist groups and hostage-takers from benefiting from ransom payments or political concessions, and to prioritize the safe release of hostages.
Ambassador Ahmad emphasized the need for sustained and verifiable counterterrorism measures, calling upon the Taliban to actively combat terrorism and prevent groups from operating with impunity. He noted the Council’s commitment to reviewing the sanctions regime as circumstances evolve, and expressed hope for continued active reporting from the Monitoring Team.
Recent Violence and Regional Implications
These discussions occur following a series of deadly terrorist attacks within Pakistan. Last Friday, a suicide bombing at Imambargah Khadijah al-Kubra in Islamabad resulted in at least 36 deaths and 169 injuries – the deadliest attack in the capital in over a decade. Earlier in January, coordinated attacks in Balochistan led to 92 terrorists killed and 18 civilians martyred, with the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claiming responsibility.
A recent report by the UNSC’s 1267 Sanctions Committee, according to Pakistan’s Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi, supported Pakistan’s position that the TTP continues to operate from Afghan soil with operational space and support, and that the group resurged after the 2021 takeover by the interim Afghan government. In 2025, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province experienced 1,588 terrorism-related incidents, a nearly 50% increase compared to the previous year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Monitoring Team?
The Monitoring Team supports the 1988 Afghanistan Sanctions Committee by overseeing the Taliban sanctions regime.
Which terrorist groups were specifically mentioned as concerns?
Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its Majeed Brigade, Islamic State Khorasan (ISIL-K), and Al Qaeda were specifically cited as concerns.
What did Pakistan urge the Taliban to do?
Pakistan urged the Taliban to prevent terrorist groups from operating with impunity and to effectively combat terrorism.
As the situation in Afghanistan continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether the Taliban will take steps to address international concerns regarding terrorism and regional stability. A possible next step could involve increased engagement between the Taliban and the Monitoring Team to demonstrate verifiable counterterrorism efforts. Further, the UNSC could consider adjustments to the sanctions regime based on the Monitoring Team’s future reports. The path forward hinges on the decisions made by the Afghan authorities.
What role will regional cooperation play in addressing the ongoing security challenges stemming from Afghanistan?