Pakistan Urges Taliban to Address Ties with TTP and Women’s Rights Restrictions
Pakistan on Cross-border terrorism concerns & Call for Clarity on TTP Relationship
Pakistan has called on Afghanistan’s Taliban leadership to clarify their connection with the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a globally designated terrorist organization responsible for escalating cross-border violence. Asif Durrani, Islamabad’s special representative to Afghanistan, emphasized the need for transparency, urging the Taliban to address the “menace” of TTP together with Pakistan.
Durrani’s remarks came after the TTP intensified deadly attacks in Pakistan, claiming the lives of hundreds of civilians and security forces. He highlighted that for a durable bilateral relationship, the Taliban must clarify their stance as “ideological cousins” of the TTP.
Taliban’s Denial of TTP Presence in Afghanistan
In contrast, Qari Fasihuddin Fitrat, the Taliban army chief, rejected accusations that the TTP operates from Afghan soil. Speaking at a news conference in Kabul, Fitrat claimed there is no evidence of TTP presence in Afghanistan, asserting instead that the group has bases in Pakistan.
The TTP has publicly pledged allegiance to the Taliban, historically providing support during their insurgency against U.S.-led forces in Afghanistan. Despite mutual tensions over TTP attacks, Pakistan continues to assist Afghanistan in international trade to alleviate economic and humanitarian challenges.
Concerns Over Women’s Rights
While praising the Taliban for improving national security since their takeover, Durrani expressed concern over the restrictions imposed on Afghan women. He supported international demands for the reversal of these restrictions, emphasizing that no society, Islamic or otherwise, should accept the denial of girls’ education and women’s right to work.
The Taliban have barred girls from attending school beyond the sixth grade and restricted women from most public and private sector employment. Recently, new regulations have prohibited women from speaking aloud or showing their faces in public, drawing international criticism.
Durrani highlighted that the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has “unequivocally” called on the Taliban to lift these bans. However, the Taliban, citing adherence to Islamic Shariah, have dismissed global criticism, arguing that objections stem from a lack of understanding of Islam.
