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Kabul: Fazl ur Rehman, leader of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam in Pakistan, reiterated claims that 40,000 Pakistani citizens have participated in the Afghan conflict during NATO’s two-decade presence. Addressing his supporters, the influential cleric voiced concerns over the reintegration of these war veterans into Pakistani society. His remarks coincide with ongoing reports hinting at potential military actions along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, areas Rehman describes as harboring “terrorists.”
These comments come after a recent visit by the commander of the U.S. Central Command to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region bordering Afghanistan. Rehman highlighted that Pakistani combatants have returned via border fences, despite government assertions that the barbed wire installations aimed to restrict militant movements. “Forty thousand Pakistanis participated in the Afghan conflict and have now come back, having breached the fence,” he asserted.
Last week, Rehman disclosed similar information regarding Pakistani involvement in the prolonged conflict.
Meanwhile, analysts emphasize Pakistan’s significant role in supporting the Taliban against U.S.-led NATO forces and Afghan troops. Mohammad Radmanish, a military expert, noted, “Terrorist groups have benefited from Pakistan’s historical and ongoing support, remaining active in both Afghanistan and Pakistan.
