ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has strongly condemned the deadly attack at the Kohat Police Lines and alleged that the assault was carried out by militants with roots in Afghanistan, warning that Islamabad will take all necessary measures under international law to protect its citizens, territory and sovereignty.
The statement came after a deadly attack at the old Police Lines in Kohat during Friday prayers. According to Pakistani authorities and current reports, at least 21 people, including 15 police personnel, were killed and more than 100 others injured.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting described the attackers as “Khawarij” with roots in Afghanistan. It said the presence of terrorist sanctuaries and recruitment networks on Afghan soil posed a direct security threat to Pakistan.
The ministry maintained that terrorism has no religion or justification and said Pakistan remained committed to protecting its population from militant violence.
The attack involved an explosives-laden vehicle detonating near a mosque in the Police Lines, followed by militants entering the compound and attacking security installations.
Islamabad Calls for Action Against Terrorist Networks
The ministry also criticised statements from Afghan Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid that threatened Pakistan with serious consequences. Islamabad called on the Afghan authorities to address militant networks operating from Afghan territory rather than placing blame on Pakistan.
Pakistan said condemnation of the Kohat attack by Afghan authorities would not be sufficient and urged Kabul to translate statements of sympathy into concrete and verifiable counterterrorism measures.
The ministry further called on the Afghan interim government to fulfil its counterterrorism responsibilities under the Doha Agreement.
The ministry said Pakistan would not accept measures or negotiations that put the lives of its citizens at risk. It reiterated that the country would take necessary steps, consistent with international law, to safeguard its people, territory and sovereignty.
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Meanwhile, the deadly attack has prompted condemnation from senior Pakistani officials. President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed condolences and directed authorities to ensure medical treatment for the injured.
