Taliban Organise Armed Rally Against Pakistan In Khost

Taliban-linked media reported on Saturday that an armed march against Pakistan was held in Khost, with participants carrying weapons and chanting anti-Pakistan slogans.

Taliban-linked media reported on Saturday that an armed march against Pakistan was held in Khost, with participants carrying weapons and chanting anti-Pakistan slogans.
Videos released by Taliban outlets show individuals holding both old and modern weapons, with some participants saying they were awaiting Taliban orders to join a possible fight against Pakistan.
The march reportedly took place in the border districts of Zazi Maidan and Alisher.
Participants condemned Pakistan’s recent attacks on Afghan territory and warned they were ready to wage jihad if instructed.
Some told Taliban media they had already registered for a potential conflict, stressing that defending Afghanistan’s soil is a responsibility shared by all citizens.
Mukhtaruddin Jalalzai, a tribal elder in Khost, said locals had signed up for possible fighting and were waiting for Taliban orders to join front-line combat against Pakistani forces.
Previously, in several provinces, the Taliban have been accused of pressuring people to take part in anti-Pakistan demonstrations. Residents told Afghanistan International they had been threatened into joining such protests.
Over the past four years, the Taliban have repeatedly suppressed public protests, including those led by women demanding rights and freedoms, often using force and detaining participants.
Observers say the Taliban are attempting to mobilise public support against Pakistan.
Tensions between the two sides continue to escalate, with Pakistan vowing to continue operations inside Afghanistan and the Taliban saying they will respond to further attacks.