On Wednesday, Pakistan’s Foreign Office firmly dismissed a statement issued by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs dated March 17, labeling it as unfounded, misleading, and unjustified. The Indian statement criticized Pakistan’s ongoing military operations targeting terrorist hideouts within Afghan territory. However, Pakistan categorically rejected these allegations, emphasizing the broader context of India’s historical interference and support for anti-Pakistan militant groups operating from Afghanistan.
The spokesperson for Pakistan’s Foreign Office highlighted that India’s accusations reflect a clear case of double standards and blatant hypocrisy. He pointed out that India has long been involved in sponsoring terrorism against Pakistan from Afghan soil, a fact that complicates any narrative India tries to push regarding Pakistan’s legitimate counter-terrorism efforts. This ongoing dynamic has contributed to instability in the region, with Pakistan striving to eliminate threats that jeopardize its national security.
Further condemning the Indian leadership, the spokesperson remarked that the country’s government has consistently failed to take responsibility for fostering Islamophobia and inciting violence against its own Muslim population for political leverage. This internal discord, he noted, contrasts sharply with India’s recent vocal support for an occupying power responsible for the deaths of thousands of innocent Palestinians, underscoring a contradictory and selective approach to human rights and international law.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office also criticized India’s credibility on issues of sovereignty and territorial integrity. It described India’s position as “quite ridiculous,” given its history of undermining the sovereignty of neighboring countries. The statement underscored that India’s past actions contradict its current rhetoric about respecting international law and the United Nations Charter. Pakistan stressed that such statements by India are an attempt to divert attention from its own violations, particularly in occupied Kashmir, where Kashmiris continue to face severe repression and are denied their right to self-determination as mandated by multiple UN resolutions.
In conclusion, Pakistan demanded that India immediately cease its support for terrorist organizations operating from Afghan territory, including those designated under the UN Security Council sanctions regime. The Foreign Office urged India to refrain from making unwarranted and baseless criticisms of Pakistan’s successful and ongoing counter-terrorism operations, which are crucial for regional peace and security. This exchange highlights the deep-rooted tensions between the two neighbors and the complex geopolitical challenges in South Asia.
