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The warning from Zalmay Khalilzad comes at a time when there has been a hike in ISKP-linked violence, including high-profile suicide attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Zalmay Khalilzad, the former US envoy for Afghan peace negotiations (Reuters image)
Zalmay Khalilzad, the former US envoy for Afghan peace negotiations, has raised concern about the increasing presence of ISKP (Islamic State Khorasan Province) in Pakistan and referred to it as a major threat to both regional and international security.
He further called on the United States to exert pressure on Islamabad to take firm and effective steps against ISKP cells that are reportedly operating within Pakistan’s borders, reported TOLO News.
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Khalilzad highlighted recent counter-terrorism actions by the Taliban-led Afghan government and noted that it has driven numerous ISKP leaders out of Afghanistan. Many of them, he noted, have now crossed the Durand Line, the boundary between Afghanistan and Pakistan, and are believed to be seeking refuge in Pakistani territory.
His warning comes amid a surge in ISKP-linked violence, including high-profile suicide attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, which have targeted both security personnel and civilians. Some recent attacks include:
1. Darul Uloom Haqqania Seminary Bombing: February 28, 2025
A suicide bomber targeted the seminary during Friday prayers, killing 8 people, including the head cleric Maulana Hamid Ul Haq Haqqani, and injuring about 20. ISKP was suspected of orchestrating the attack.
2. Mastung Bus Bombing (Balochistan): April 15, 2025
An improvised explosive device (IED) detonated near a bus transporting Balochistan Constabulary personnel, killing 3 security officers and injuring 20. ISKP claimed responsibility, calling the victims “apostate” police.
3. ISKP Declares War on Baloch Separatist Groups: May 25, 2025
ISKP released a Pashto-language video via its Al-Azaim media outlet, declaring formal war against Baloch separatist groups like the BLA (Baloch Liberation Army) and BLF. The announcement followed an earlier alleged attack by Baloch militants on an ISKP camp in Mastung that killed around 30 ISKP fighters.
About the Author
Anushka Vats is a Sub-Editor at News18.com with a passion for storytelling and a curiosity that extends beyond the newsroom. She covers both national and international news. For more stories, you can follow her…Read More
Anushka Vats is a Sub-Editor at News18.com with a passion for storytelling and a curiosity that extends beyond the newsroom. She covers both national and international news. For more stories, you can follow her… Read More
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