PESHAWAR:The Pakistani Taliban, known as the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), has ordered all its militant fighters to immediately leave Pakistan and return to Afghanistan.
According to reports, the TTP’s central leader, Mufti Noor Wali, issued the command from Afghanistan. The instructions are being sent through a clear chain of command, from top leaders to regional commanders, and then down to the local fighters on the ground.
To ensure everyone gets the message, the group is using Facebook Messenger, printed pamphlets, and its network of informants.
The order is very specific: fighters must stop all attacks immediately, break into small groups, and return to Afghanistan using the same secret routes they used to enter Pakistan. The message states that no new operations should be started until the group’s top leader arrives in Afghanistan and gives further instructions. These messages are delivered in Pashto and include religious phrases to confirm they are authentic and to maintain control.
This retreat is seen as a direct result of a ceasefire and recent military pressure from Pakistan, which has taken a strong stance against militants operating from Afghan soil.
However, security analysts believe this is not a surrender. Instead, it is a tactical “regrouping,” where the TTP is temporarily dispersing its forces to rest and reorganize. The fact that the orders are coming from within Afghanistan strongly suggests the Afghan Taliban government is aware of and allowing this activity.
For Pakistan, this orderly withdrawal offers a temporary period of relief from attacks. But experts warn it is likely just an “operational pause,” not the end of the conflict. Pakistan will need to maintain strong security, intelligence, and counter-terrorism efforts to prevent these groups from returning in the future.
