Pakistan Army Warns of Security Threat from $7.2 Billion in U.S. Weapons Left in Afghanistan

Major General Ahmed Sharif Chowdhury, spokesperson for the Pakistan Army, has issued a stark warning regarding the massive stockpile of American weapons, valued at approximately $7.2 billion, left behind in Afghanistan, stating that it poses a security threat to multiple countries in the region.

Concerns Over $7.2 Billion in US Weapons in Afghanistan

In a press briefing, Major General Chowdhury expressed serious concerns about the implications of the extensive presence of American arms in Afghanistan following the withdrawal of foreign forces. He emphasized that the significant amount of weaponry left behind is becoming a major security concern for the region and could potentially endanger several nations.

The Taliban Regime Is Not a Representative of the People

In his remarks, Chowdhury distinguished between the people of Afghanistan and the current government, clarifying that Islamabad sees issues with the Taliban regime, rather than with the Afghan populace.

He stated:
“We do not have a problem with the people of Afghanistan; our issue lies with the Taliban regime, which does not represent the Afghan people.”

The spokesperson criticized Kabul’s policies, pointing out that this regime has completely disregarded half of Afghanistan’s population—its women.

Arming the Taliban Equates to Arming Terrorism

Chowdhury warned that the Taliban’s provision of refuge to groups such as ISIS, Al-Qaeda, the Uyghurs, and Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has transformed this regime into a regional threat. He noted:
“Any country that supplies military arms to the Taliban regime is effectively arming terrorists.”

He stressed that Pakistan does not differentiate in its approach to armed groups, asserting that the only good terrorist is a dead terrorist.

Complexities of Border Security and Trade Disruption

Chowdhury also highlighted the challenges of managing the border with Afghanistan, explaining that the tribal structure and fragmented villages on either side of the border, coupled with a lack of effective governance in Afghanistan, complicate security monitoring. He pointed out that clashes often begin when a country on the opposite side first opens fire on posts on the Pakistani side, allowing terrorists to exploit created gaps.

The spokesperson linked the closure of certain trade routes with Afghanistan to these security concerns, stating, “Bloodshed and trade cannot coexist.” He underscored that the safety of Pakistani citizens is the top priority in decisions regarding border crossings.

In conclusion, Chowdhury reiterated that the continued access of terrorist groups to advanced weaponry in Afghanistan, particularly the arms left behind after the U.S. withdrawal, poses a serious threat not only to Pakistan but to the entire region.