TTP formations infiltrating into Pakistan mostly comprise Afghans: CDF Field Marshal Asim Munir

Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir has said that militant formations of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) uinfiltrating into Pakistan largely consist of Afghan nationals operating from across the border.

Addressing the National Ulema and Mashaikh Conference in Islamabad on December 10, the army chief said groups linked to what he described as “Fitna al-Khawarij” were involved in terrorist attacks targeting innocent civilians, including women and children.

According to state media, Field Marshal Munir said these militant elements were receiving backing from Afghan Taliban elements, posing a serious challenge to Pakistan’s internal security and regional stability.

He stressed that Afghanistan would have to make a clear choice between curbing extremist groups on its soil and maintaining normal relations with Pakistan.

The army chief also reiterated that in any Islamic state, the authority to declare jihad rests solely with the state, warning against the misuse of religious narratives by non-state actors.

He discussed Pakistan’s broader security environment, including counter-terrorism operations, military preparedness and regional developments, and said the country had witnessed divine assistance during Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos.

Highlighting the role of religious scholars, Field Marshal Munir emphasised the importance of national unity, respect for the writ of the state and preservation of intellectual and scholarly traditions to counter extremism.

The conference was attended by ulema and mashaikh from various schools of thought across the country.