Jamaat-ul-Ahrar Denies Afghan Operations Amidst Tensions with Pakistan

The militant group Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, an affiliate of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), has vehemently rejected Islamabad’s claims regarding the group’s operations in Afghan territory, asserting that all its forces are based within Pakistan.

Refuting Islamabad’s Accusations and Emphasizing Internal Presence

The armed outfit Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, a key faction linked to the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), has issued a clear statement in response to the recent airstrikes by the Pakistani military on eastern Afghanistan. The group has categorically denied allegations from Islamabad’s security and political apparatus suggesting that they have sought refuge or operate from Afghan territory. They assert that all their commanders, combat forces, logistical resources, and organizational structures are fully established and active within Pakistan.

Demonstrating Power from Karachi to Khyber

In an official letter released by the group, it is stated that their fighters do not require the use of Afghan territory for planning, organizing, or executing their military and offensive operations. Jamaat-ul-Ahrar has warned Pakistani military generals that their operational cells are active from the southern port city of Karachi to the strategically significant Khyber region north of the capital, targeting Pakistan’s security forces and police. The group condemned the bombings and rocket attacks on residential areas in eastern Afghanistan, labeling them inhumane acts.

Kabul Echoes Militants’ Statement in Rejecting Terrorism Transit Claims

In line with this stance, officials from the interim government in Kabul have completely dismissed allegations linking recent deadly attacks on the Special Ranger forces’ headquarters in Karachi to individuals or territories from Afghanistan. The Kabul diplomatic apparatus accused Pakistan of deflecting responsibility, describing its cross-border airstrikes in Paktia, Paktika, and Kunar provinces—resulting in heavy civilian casualties—as outright aggressive acts, contrary to good neighborly relations and in violation of clear principles of international law.