Pakistan denies allowing US to use its territory for Afghanistan strikes

Pakistan's military leadership has categorically rejected allegations that it maintains an agreement allowing the United States to launch attacks on Afghanistan from Pakistani territory. Army spokesman Major General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry characterized the claims as completely unfounded during a briefing with selected journalists, emphasizing that no such security arrangement exists between Islamabad and Washington.

Afghan Allegations and Pakistani Response

The denial came in response to statements from Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for Afghanistan's interim administration, who asserted that American drones regularly enter Afghan airspace through Pakistani territory. Mujahid had indicated that Kabul had formally requested Islamabad prevent its territory and airspace from being used for operations against Afghanistan, highlighting ongoing tensions between the neighboring nations.

Military Operations and Security Claims

The Pakistani military spokesman provided additional context about recent security operations, revealing that Pakistani forces had eliminated 112 foreign combatants over the preceding three to four months. This information appeared intended to demonstrate Pakistan's independent counterterrorism efforts and its commitment to maintaining regional security without foreign involvement or coordination with US military operations.

Regional Security Implications

The exchange underscores the complex security dynamics in the region, where allegations of cross-border military cooperation often strain diplomatic relations. Pakistan's firm denial seeks to address Afghan concerns while maintaining its position of non-involvement in US military activities, particularly as regional security arrangements continue to evolve following international troop withdrawals from Afghanistan.