By Asghar Ali Mubarak
ISLAMABAD: New evidence has emerged linking Afghan territory to a series of deadly terrorist attacks in Pakistan, underscoring long-standing concerns over cross-border militancy.
Pakistani authorities have confirmed that the suicide bomber behind the 16 February attack in Bajaur, identified as Ahmad alias Qari Abdullah Abu Zar, hailed from Balkh province in Afghanistan.
This revelation adds to a growing list of incidents implicating Afghan nationals in assaults across the country. Investigations indicate that the bomber responsible for the Tarlai attack in Islamabad had received militant training in Afghanistan, reflecting a broader pattern of cross-border facilitation.
Similarly, the assailants behind attacks on the Islamabad Judicial Complex and the Frontier Corps headquarters in Peshawar were also linked to Afghan territory. Other incidents, including assaults on the Dera Ismail Khan Police Training Center and Wana Cadet College, have been connected to Afghan nationals, highlighting a persistent and troubling trend.
Authorities also reported that Naimat Ullah, a suicide bomber arrested in South Waziristan, originated from Kandahar province, further illustrating the transnational dimension of militancy. Evidence from last year’s Bannu Cantt attack confirms that planning occurred in Afghanistan, with Afghan nationals playing a central role.
Security analysts say these findings point to the Taliban regime’s complicity, or at minimum tacit support, in allowing militants to operate from Afghan soil. They argue that the persistent use of Afghanistan as a base for attacks in Pakistan undermines regional stability and exposes the civilian population to repeated acts of violence.
