President Asif Ali Zardari has strongly condemned drone attacks by the Afghan Taliban targeting Pakistani civilians, saying that the Afghan government has crossed a “red line.”
Speaking on the attacks, Zardari criticized the illegal regime in Afghanistan for shirking its responsibilities and allowing terrorist groups to operate freely, despite assurances to prevent safe havens for militants. He warned that the Afghan government’s actions now challenge one of the major military powers in the Islamic world.
“While attempting to engage in negotiations with friendly countries, the Afghan authorities have crossed the red line by targeting Pakistani citizens,” the president said.
President Zardari emphasized Pakistan’s ongoing commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region. He also prayed for the speedy recovery of children and other civilians injured in drone attacks in Quetta, Kohat, and Rawalpindi.
Reiterating the country’s preparedness, Zardari said Pakistan’s armed forces and security agencies remain fully capable of defending the nation and protecting its citizens.