Pakistan Defense Minister Speculates on Possible Military Action in Afghanistan Before Ramadan

Pakistan's Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif has speculated that his country may conduct military action in Afghanistan before the start of Ramadan, citing ongoing deadly attacks by the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) linked to Afghanistan.

Asif stated: "My personal opinion is that it will be before the month of Ramadan; there are about 10 to 12 days left until Ramadan. Of course, I am just speculating and not giving a description based on definitive information. But this action should be done as soon as possible."

The remarks come amid a recent report from the UN Security Council, which states that the Taliban have provided a favorable environment for several terrorist groups, particularly the TTP, to operate. According to the report from the Security Council's Sanctions Monitoring Committee, Taliban officials have granted greater freedom of action and support to the Pakistani Taliban, leading to an increase in TTP attacks inside Pakistan. The committee identified the TTP as the largest active terrorist organization operating in Afghanistan.

These statements are issued as tensions between the Taliban and Pakistan have recently escalated once again.