UN report validates Pakistan’s stance on Afghanistan safe havens for terrorists

WEB DESK: A United Nations Security Council report has once again validated Pakistan’s long-standing position that Afghanistan continues to serve as a safe haven for terrorist groups, describing cross-border militancy as a serious and growing threat to regional security.

Covering developments from May 29, 2024, to November 11, 2025, the report acknowledges Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts as effective and commendable, while warning that terrorist organisations operating from Afghan territory remain active and dangerous. The findings directly contradict Taliban claims that no militant groups are present in Afghanistan.

According to the UN document, several countries have confirmed the continued presence and activities of terrorist outfits in Afghanistan, including Daesh (ISKP), the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Al-Qaeda and Jamaat Ansarullah. The report notes that the TTP has carried out attacks against Pakistan from Afghan soil, emerging as one of the most serious security threats in the region.

The Security Council report states that the banned TTP has conducted nearly 600 attacks inside Pakistan this year, many of which were thwarted by Pakistani security forces. It adds that the group has expanded its targets to include military-linked institutions and Chinese investment projects, heightening concerns over regional stability and economic development.

The report further highlights that attacks launched from Afghan territory are undermining peace, security and development across the region. It adds that the continued presence of proscribed terrorist organisations has led neighbouring countries to increasingly view Afghanistan as a source of instability.

Pointing to economic repercussions, the UN document notes that border closures have resulted in losses of approximately one million dollars per day for Afghanistan. It also states that the return of Afghan nationals since October 2023 has placed additional pressure on the country’s fragile economy and public services.

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Commending Pakistan’s counterterrorism actions, the report references the arrest on May 16 of Daesh spokesperson Sultan Aziz Azzam by Pakistani authorities. It identifies the Al-Azaim Foundation as a key organisation responsible for recruitment and propaganda activities for Daesh Khorasan.

The Security Council report stresses that terrorist groups operating from Afghanistan pose a grave threat to peace across the entire region and calls on Afghan authorities to ensure their territory is not used to provide safe havens for militant organisations.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s position, the report notes that Islamabad remains firmly committed to the complete eradication of terrorism and continues to play a critical role in countering extremist threats at both regional and international levels.