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'Now it’s open war between us': Pakistan defense minister warns Afghan Taliban amid border attacks

By The South Asia Times

ISLAMABAD - Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif issued a stark warning to the Afghan Taliban, declaring that “now it is open war” after last night's attacks on Pakistani border posts.

In his statement, Asif criticized the Taliban for turning Afghanistan into what he described as a “colony of India,” alleging that the group has gathered global terrorist elements on Afghan soil, deprived its citizens of basic human rights, and restricted women’s freedoms.

“As the Taliban attempt aggression against Pakistan, our forces are giving a decisive response. Our patience has overflowed. Now it is open war between you and us,” Asif said, invoking the slogan Dama Dam Mast Qalandar to emphasize Pakistan’s resolve.

He added that Pakistan has historically played a positive role in Afghanistan, hosting five million Afghan refugees over the past 50 years, and providing livelihoods to millions more. “Our army did not come from across the seas. We are your neighbors; we know your ins and outs. Allahu Akbar,” the minister stated.

Since the withdrawal of NATO forces from Afghanistan in 2021, the Taliban returned to power, initially raising hopes for regional stability. Pakistan had expected the Taliban to focus on Afghan interests and regional peace, but Islamabad has repeatedly accused Kabul of allowing terrorist networks to operate from Afghan territory and of aligning with India against Pakistan.

The warning from Khawaja Asif comes after fresh cross-border attacks by Taliban fighters on Pakistani security posts, which Pakistan responded to with air and ground operations under Operation Ghazab Lil Haq, killing 133 Afghan Taliban, while over 200 were injured. Two Pakistani soldier also martyred, and three injured.