Pakistan has formally protested to the Taliban regime in Afghanistan following a recent terrorist attack that resulted in the deaths of 11 soldiers and one civilian. The protest, termed a demarche, was issued on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, when the Afghan deputy head of mission was summoned to Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Rising Tensions at the Border
The attack occurred on Monday, February 16, when terrorists used an explosive-laden vehicle to target a security check post in the Bajaur area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Pakistan’s Foreign Office condemned the attack, identifying the perpetrators as belonging to Fitna al Khawarij, likewise known as the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
According to the Foreign Office, the leadership of Fitna al Khawarij is based in Afghanistan, and the group “operates with impunity from Afghan soil.” Pakistan stated it has received assurances from the Taliban regime regarding counter-terrorism efforts, but these assurances have not resulted in “visible or concrete actions.”
The Ministry has demanded that the Taliban take “immediate, concrete and verifiable measures” against all terror groups operating within its territory, including their leadership. Pakistan also “categorically informed” the Taliban that it reserves the right to respond to threats to its security, including eliminating terrorists and their affiliates “wherever they were located.”
Pakistan has frequently accused Afghanistan of allowing its territory to be used by militants for attacks within Pakistan. The Kabul administration, although, has consistently denied these allegations, asserting that Pakistan should address its own security challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
What action did Pakistan take in response to the attack?
Pakistan issued a formal protest, known as a demarche, to the Afghan Taliban regime and summoned the Afghan deputy head of mission to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
Who was identified as being responsible for the attack?
The attack was carried out by Fitna al Khawarij, also known as the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), according to Pakistan’s Foreign Office.
What is Pakistan demanding from the Taliban regime?
Pakistan is demanding that the Taliban take “immediate, concrete and verifiable measures” against all terror groups operating from Afghan soil, including their leadership.
Given the history of accusations and denials between the two nations, what steps might be necessary to build trust and address the underlying security concerns?
