Yaqoob Mujahid: Pakistan blames Afghanistan to mask its own security failures

Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid, Acting Defense Minister of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, has accused Pakistan of deflecting blame onto Afghanistan to hide weaknesses within its own security forces.

In an interview with the BBC, Mujahid stressed that attacks in Pakistan occur “hundreds of kilometers beyond the Durand Line” and bear no direct connection to Afghanistan.

He stated: “If they (militants from groups like Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Baloch separatists) cross into Pakistan from Afghanistan and travel deep inside Pakistani territory, why aren’t they stopped there? The failure to do so exposes the weaknesses of Pakistan’s security apparatus. Instead of addressing this, Pakistan unjustly accuses Afghanistan.”

Mujahid urged both sides to move beyond mutual accusations and propaganda, emphasizing the need for honest dialogue and cooperation to develop effective solutions.

“Rather than blaming each other, it is better to acknowledge the reality, work together, and devise solid plans to resolve these challenges.”

He also voiced concern over the current strained relations between Kabul and Islamabad, warning that ongoing tensions serve neither country’s interests.

“We never want relations with Pakistan to remain tense. Such animosity benefits neither Pakistan nor Afghanistan. We always try to maintain good cooperation with them in every matter and respect the rights of neighbors. Unfortunately, our relations are not as normal as they should be. I am not happy with this situation and hope we can have positive relations and find solutions to existing challenges,” he said.

Pakistani authorities have repeatedly alleged that attacks inside their country are orchestrated by militants based in Afghanistan.