WASHINGTON, November 20, 2024: The United States has condemned the recent rise in terrorist attacks in Pakistan, including the abduction of seven policemen in Bannu and an ambush on a military convoy near the Afghan border.
US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller expressed the US’s solidarity with Pakistan, acknowledging the country’s ongoing struggle against terrorism.
Speaking at a press briefing Miller stated we condemn these and all terrorist attacks. He expressed deep sympathy for the victims, saying, “The Pakistani people have suffered greatly at the hands of terrorists and violent extremists.”
Miller reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to collaborating with Pakistan’s government and security forces to combat militant threats.
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He highlighted the ongoing counterterrorism partnership between the two countries, which includes high-level dialogues and consultations to strengthen Pakistan’s capabilities in detecting, preventing, and responding to such threats.
When asked about the role of militant groups based in Afghanistan, Miller emphasized the need for bilateral cooperation but refrained from commenting on specific actions targeting terrorist hideouts in Kabul.
The abduction of seven policemen in Bannu brought attention to the increasing security challenges in Pakistan’s northwestern region.
According to District Police Officer (DPO) Ziauddin, the policemen were rescued by tribal leaders through a jirga, with no ransom or conditions attached.
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In recent months, attacks on law enforcement agencies and kidnappings of police personnel have surged in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan. Earlier this month, a police constable was abducted from his home in the Bakakhel Police Station area of Bannu.
A report by the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) highlighted a 90% increase in fatalities linked to terrorism and counterterrorism operations in the third quarter of 2024.
The report recorded 722 deaths and 615 injuries across 328 incidents, with KP and Balochistan accounting for the majority of the casualties.
These incidents underscore the continued security challenges Pakistan faces, particularly along its porous border with Afghanistan.
Despite the Taliban’s assurances to curb cross-border terrorism, militant groups continue to exploit these areas for attacks.
The US acknowledged the difficulties posed by cross-border militancy and emphasized the importance of bilateral cooperation in addressing these security threats.
