Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari says tolerance for cross-border terrorism has reached its limit. In a statement today, he said that recent actions of Pakistan are rooted in its inherent right to defend its people against terrorism emanating from across its borders, and follow repeated warnings that went unheeded.

According to Radio Pakistan, the President expressed deep concern over the de facto authorities in Kabul, a regime not recognized by the United Nations, which continue to allow terrorist elements to operate from Afghan soil. This, he noted, is a violation of their commitments under the Doha Accord, wherein they pledged that Afghan territory would not be used against any country.

Referring to his statement from the 8th of this month, President Zardari reminded the international community that when terrorist groups are given space, facilitation, or impunity beyond national borders, the consequences are borne by innocent civilians worldwide. He also criticized the situation in Afghanistan under the Taliban, stating it has created conditions similar to or worse than pre-9/11.

Asif Ali Zardari highlighted the findings of the latest United Nations Security Council Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team report, which aligns with Pakistan's long-standing position. The report indicates that various terrorist groups, including ISIL-K, Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and Al-Qaida, are present in Afghanistan and are using it to plan and prepare external attacks.

The President expressed regret that despite clear warnings and repeated engagement, Afghan authorities have failed to take credible and verifiable action against these elements. He noted that Pakistan has exercised restraint for a considerable period, focusing its response on terrorist hideouts near the border areas. However, he warned that Pakistan is aware of the locations of the planners, facilitators, and patrons of violence, and if bloodshed continues, those responsible will not remain beyond reach.

President Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to peace, stability, and cooperative relations with its neighbors. He stressed that peace cannot be based on denial, duplicity, or inaction against terrorism, emphasizing that protecting Pakistani lives is paramount and non-negotiable.