US supports Pakistan’s right to defend against the Taliban

US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison M. Hooker, Saturday, said that they continued to monitor the situation between Pakistan and Afghanistan closely and expressed support for Pakistan’s right to defend itself against Taliban attacks.

US officials confirmed that the Taliban, designated as a global terrorist group, continue to use Afghanistan as a base to carry out attacks in Pakistan. US Ambassador Hooker conveyed condolences to Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary over the recent loss of lives in the conflict. She added that the situation is being closely monitored, and Washington supports Pakistan’s defensive measures.

Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump praised Pakistan’s handling of the escalating tensions, saying the country is managing the situation “terrifically well.” He expressed respect for Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief General Asim Munir, calling them strong leaders. Trump clarified that he would not intervene, noting his positive relations with Pakistan.

Earlier, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar provided details of Pakistan’s Operation Ghazab lil-Haq, launched in response to unprovoked cross-border attacks by the Afghan Taliban. Tarar said Pakistani security forces killed 331 Taliban fighters, injured over 500 others, destroyed 104 posts, and captured 22 militants.

He further stated that 163 tanks and armored vehicles were destroyed and 37 Taliban locations in Afghanistan were targeted through coordinated air and ground strikes. The operation began Friday night, focusing on Taliban positions along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border and key military installations inside Afghanistan.

These measures reflect Pakistan’s determination to protect its citizens and borders while sending a strong message to terrorist groups using Afghan soil for attacks. International support, including from the United States, underscores Pakistan’s right to defend itself and maintain regional security.