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Kabul’s Costly Gamble: Afghanistan Pushes Traders Away From Pakistan, But Risks Backfiring Economically

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif Warns Afghanistan of Severe Consequences Amid Rising Tensions

Islamabad and Wana Attacks Mark Escalation in Cross-Border Terrorism; Asif Says “Pakistan is in a State of War”

2 min read

By News Desk

November 12, 2025

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif Warns Afghanistan of Severe Consequences Amid Rising Tensions

Khawaja Asif, while speaking to the media amid the Istanbul Talks

ISLAMABAD — Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has issued a stern warning to the Afghan Taliban, declaring that Pakistan is effectively in a state of war with Afghanistan. He cautioned that if the Taliban do not put an end to cross-border terrorist activities, they will face serious and unavoidable consequences.

Afghan Taliban Sent a Clear Message Through Violence

Speaking to the media, Khawaja Asif revealed that he personally participated in the first round of Pakistan-Afghanistan talks, though he was not part of later discussions. Referring to the recent suicide attack in Islamabad, he said the incident carried a clear and dangerous message from the Afghan Taliban to expand the scale and intensity of terrorism across Pakistan.

“This attack shows their intent to spread terrorism further. Pakistan’s security forces have sacrificed immensely to eliminate this menace,” Asif said. “However, the attacks in Islamabad and Wana Cadet College demonstrate that the Afghan Taliban are using terrorism to pressure Pakistan instead of cleansing their soil from militants.”

Pakistan Is at War

The Defence Minister emphasized that Pakistan has endured years of bloodshed in its fight against terrorism. “We are at war. After burying so many martyrs, can we remain silent? Pakistan is fully prepared to face any situation,” he stated firmly.

He further said that while Pakistan desires peace, Afghanistan’s current approach leaves no room for trust or dialogue.

Afghanistan Has No Intent for Peace

Asif lamented that despite multiple rounds of peace negotiations, including those in Doha and Istanbul, no tangible progress was made.

“Their objective is not reconciliation; it is to keep Pakistan under constant pressure and internal instability,” he remarked.

He added that the international community must realize that Afghanistan’s soil is once again being used as a launchpad for terrorism against Pakistan.

Security Forces Foil Another APS-like Tragedy

Highlighting the bravery of Pakistan’s forces, Asif revealed that terrorists behind the Wana Cadet College attack had intended to replicate the 2014 APS Peshawar massacre, but timely intervention prevented a large-scale catastrophe. “Had our forces not acted swiftly, we could have witnessed another dark day like APS,” he said.

Constitutional Clarifications and Political Remarks

Addressing questions regarding constitutional amendments, Asif clarified that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has not sought any kind of immunity, while reaffirming that the President enjoys constitutional protection under the law. Commenting on the judiciary’s silence over recent events, the Defence Minister added:

“The judiciary has chosen silence for now. But if we revisit the past, a lot will come to light.”

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3 days ago

Afghanistan Should Seek Alternative Trade Routes Instead of Relying on Pakistan: Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar

KABUL _Afghanistan’s Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, has called on Afghan traders to end their reliance on Pakistan for imports and exports and to seek alternative trade routes through other neighboring countries. Speaking at a meeting with industrialists and business representatives in Kabul, Mullah Baradar warned that traders who continue to conduct business through Pakistan will not receive any assistance or support from the Islamic Emirate in the future.

Baradar’s Stern Warning to Traders

He stated,

“From today onward, all Afghan traders must choose other countries as alternative trade routes instead of Pakistan. If anyone faces any issue or obstruction in Pakistan, the Afghan government will neither hear their complaints nor help them resolve their problems.”

According to government sources, Kabul is now exploring new trade pathways through Central Asian states, Iran, and Turkey to minimize dependence on Pakistan’s transit routes.

Rising Economic and Political Tensions

Observers believe this policy shift comes amid growing tensions between Kabul and Islamabad, particularly after recent border closures and trade restrictions. These measures have caused significant financial losses reportedly amounting to billions of rupees for both Afghan traders and transporters dependent on the Pakistani route.

Strategic Shift in Regional Trade

The Afghan government’s consideration of Central Asia, Iran, and Turkey for trade expansion reflects a broader strategic effort to integrate more deeply into Eurasian economic corridors. Analysts suggest this could also align Afghanistan with initiatives such as the Trans-Caspian trade network and Iran’s Chabahar Port, both of which offer alternatives to Pakistan’s traditional routes.

Mullah Baradar’s remarks mark a significant turning point in Afghanistan’s regional trade policy. The move to diversify trade channels may reshape the country’s economic landscape and further strain relations with Pakistan, which has historically served as Afghanistan’s primary trade and transit partner.

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3 days ago

Bodies of Victims of Islamabad Court Blast Released to Families as Dozens Remain Injured

ISLAMABAD_The bodies of those killed in the suicide attack near the Islamabad District Judicial Complex have been handed over to their families following post-mortem and legal procedures. Among the deceased is lawyer Zubair Aslam Ghuman, according to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) Hospital administration.

INJURED UNDER TREATMENT

Out of 36 injured individuals, 13 remain hospitalized, with one patient reported to be in critical condition. The attack occurred yesterday outside the G-11 sector court, targeting a police vehicle. It resulted in 12 people killed on the spot and several others injured.

SECURITY MEASURES TIGHTENED

Following the incident, security forces have increased vigilance across Islamabad and surrounding areas, implementing stricter security protocols to prevent further attacks.

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3 days ago

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif Warns Afghanistan of Severe Consequences Amid Rising Tensions

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4 days ago

Global Outcry as Islamabad and Wana Attacks Spark Condemnations

World Leaders Condemn Brutal Attacks

The recent suicide attack in Islamabad’s G11 district court and the assault on Wana Cadet College have drawn global condemnation. Countries across Europe, the Americas, Asia, and the Middle East have expressed shock and solidarity with Pakistan.

Firm Stand Against Terrorism

The EU expressed deep sorrow over the tragic events and unequivocally condemned terrorism in all forms. Brussels extended condolences to the families of victims and wished a swift recovery for the injured, emphasizing that terrorism anywhere is a threat to all.

US Embassy Condemned the Attacks

The U.S. Embassy in Islamabad reaffirmed its unwavering support for Pakistan’s efforts to combat terrorism. Condemning the attack as “senseless,” the embassy offered condolences to the families of those killed and recovery wishes to the injured, while highlighting continued cooperation in promoting peace and stability.

Interestingly, yesterday’s U.S. statement regarding the Delhi blast refrained from using the word terrorism, signaling Washington’s cautious approach toward India’s claims, similar to its previous response to the Pulwama incident. By contrast, today’s U.S. statement on the Islamabad attack explicitly labeled it as terrorism and reaffirmed Pakistan’s ongoing struggle against terror.

 Solidarity From the Asia-Pacific

The Australian High Commission expressed deep sympathy to the victims’ families and all those affected by the attacks. Canberra reaffirmed its support for Pakistan’s security forces in protecting citizens and maintaining public safety.

 Strong Denouncement of Violence

Qatar strongly condemned the attacks in Islamabad and Wana, reiterating its rejection of all forms of terrorism and criminal acts. Doha extended heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families and emphasized Pakistan’s right to defend its citizens and institutions. https://x.com/htnworld/status/1988255121445441631?s=20

Belgium Condolences and Support

The Belgian Embassy in Islamabad offered deepest condolences to the victims’ families, highlighting the shared grief of the international community. Belgium reaffirmed its solidarity with Pakistan in its fight against extremist violence.

Strategic Ally Voices Support

China condemned the terrorist attacks, reaffirming its friendship with Pakistan and pledging support for its counter-terrorism measures. Beijing called for swift action against the perpetrators and emphasized the importance of security for citizens and ongoing development projects. https://x.com/htnworld/status/1988256899717009819?s=20

Terrorism Cannot Be Tolerated

The attacks have prompted nations worldwide to stand united against terrorism. From Europe to Asia and the Middle East, governments have sent a clear message: violent extremism will not be tolerated, and international solidarity with Pakistan is unwavering.

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4 days ago

Afghanistan’s Foreign Ministry Condemns Islamabad Court Blast and Wana Cadet College Attack

ISLAMABAD_ The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan issued a statement expressing deep sorrow and condemnation over the devastating explosion outside the district court in Islamabad’s G11 sector, as well as the attempted attack on a cadet college in Wana, Pakistan. The ministry described the incidents as tragic events that have claimed many lives and left scores injured.

Islamabad Court Blast and Wana Attack Updates

In Islamabad, authorities continue investigations into the suicide bombing near the judicial complex that killed 12 people and injured at least 27 others. At the same time, security forces have been engaged in a clearance operation at Wana Cadet College, where militants attacked earlier, giving rise to strong Pakistani criticism of militant safehavens across the Afghan border.

Pakistan-Afghanistan Relations

The Afghan ministry’s note comes amid long-standing tensions between Pakistan and the Taliban-led Afghan authorities, who have repeatedly refused to accept Pakistan’s key demand: that Afghan territory must not be used as a safe haven for terrorists. Relations between the two sides remain strained, as the Taliban have so far failed to take meaningful action against militant networks operating from their soil.

Islamabad had stressed that any progress must be backed by tangible measures against militants and terrorist safe zones. Groups such as Jamat-ul-Ahrar, a distant faction of the TTP, have already claimed responsibility for attacks inside Pakistan, including the Wana Cadet College assault, while also condemning the Islamabad Kacheri blast. Notably, three major attacks by the TTP occurred after talks with Pakistan, underscoring the persistent threat emanating from Afghan territory.

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4 days ago

Jamaat-ul-Ahrar Claims Responsibility for Islamabad Suicide Attack

Islamabad, Pakistan – Jamaat-ul-Ahrar (JuA), a sub-faction of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), has claimed responsibility for the suicide attack near the District Judicial Complex in Islamabad. The claim was confirmed through a statement published by the Ghazi Media Network.

The attack, which occurred in the heart of the federal capital, killed 12 people and injured 27 others. According to the group, the attack specifically targeted judges, lawyers, and court staff, highlighting their continued focus on government and judicial institutions.

Attack Details


Authorities reported that the suicide bomber attempted to enter the District Judicial Complex but detonated near the entrance. The blast caused casualties among both court employees and civilians, while security forces quickly cordoned off the area. Hospitals in Islamabad, including PIMS, were placed on high alert to treat the wounded.

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited the scene, assuring that security in the capital has been tightened. He stated that all responsible individuals would be brought to justice, emphasizing that terrorist networks operating from across the border will not be allowed to target Pakistani citizens.

About Jamaat-ul-Ahrar

Jamaat-ul-Ahrar was formed in 2014 as a breakaway faction of the TTP and is known for its high-profile terrorist attacks across Pakistan. The group has a history of targeting civilians, security forces, and government institutions.

Some of their notable attacks include:


• 2015 Lahore Easter bombings, killing over 70 people
• 2016 Bacha Khan University attack in Charsadda, killing 22
• Multiple suicide bombings and armed assaults in Peshawar, Quetta, and Karachi

The faction has repeatedly used suicide attacks and bombings as a method to instill fear and destabilize the state.

Government and Security Response

Following the attack:


• Islamabad authorities increased security at judicial complexes, government offices, and key public areas
• Vehicle checks and entry restrictions have been intensified across the capital
• Police and intelligence agencies have launched full-scale investigations into the attack and possible links with other terrorist networks

Interior Minister Naqvi emphasized that the government will adopt a zero-tolerance policy toward terrorism, with perpetrators and their facilitators facing the full force of the law.

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4 days ago

Security Forces Continue Operation Against Militants after Wana Cadet College Attack

South Waziristan — Pakistani security forces continue their operation against three militants holed up inside Wana Cadet College following a deadly attack on November 10. At the time of the incident, approximately 650 people, including 525 cadets, were present in the college.

Security sources confirm that 115 individuals have been safely rescued so far, while around 535 remain inside the campus. The three militants have been contained in a specific building located at a safe distance from the cadets’ residential quarters. The area around the building is under tight security to ensure the safety of the remaining cadets. The operation is being carried out with extreme caution due to the militants’ presence inside the college. Efforts to evacuate cadets from the campus are progressing gradually.

On November 10, militants attempted to breach the college’s main gate using a vehicle loaded with explosives. The explosion destroyed the main gate and caused damage to nearby structures. Pakistani army personnel responded immediately and bravely neutralized two militants on the spot.Security sources emphasized that the attackers have no connection to Islam or Pakistan’s prosperity, targeting innocent tribal children instead. The counter-terrorism operation will continue until all militants are fully eliminated.

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4 days ago

Blast Outside District and Sessions Court in Islamabad’s Sector G-11 Leaves 12 Dead and 27 injured

ISLAMABAD: A powerful explosion near the District and Sessions Court in Sector G-11 has resulted in the death of 12 individuals and left multiple others injured, according to initial police reports.

Police Van Targeted Near Courthouse

Authorities confirmed that the blast occurred close to a police vehicle when an attacker on a motorcycle approached and detonated explosives. The impact severely damaged nearby vehicles and structures.

Rescue and Medical Response

All injured have been shifted to PIMS Hospital in Islamabad, where emergency staff are treating  

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited the site and briefed the media on the incident.

The attacker attempted to enter the court premises but, due to strict security, detonated explosives near a police mobile vehicle. Minister Naqvi warned that all those responsible will be brought to justice. He added that Pakistani authorities are aware of developments in Afghanistan that may be linked to such incidents.

“The person who carried out this blast will face consequences,” Mohsin Naqvi stated.

Security Measures and Investigation

In response, security in Islamabad has been heightened, with increased checks at all entry points. Vehicles without e-tags will not be allowed entry, and this measure is initially set for two weeks to enhance the capital’s security. Legal action will also be taken against foreigners residing illegally in the city.

Law enforcement agencies, bomb disposal squads, and investigative teams are working on a war-footing basis, collecting evidence from the site. Hospitals, including PIMS, have activated emergency protocols to treat the wounded. The responsibility for the attack will be officially announced after ongoing investigations.

Preliminary Investigation Underway

A senior police officer stated that the nature of the blast is still under investigation, and authorities are gathering forensic evidence from the site. Counterterrorism teams have joined the probe to determine the source and motive of the attack