The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has reaffirmed Pakistan’s long-standing concerns, confirming the presence of multiple terrorist groups operating from Afghan soil, Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said on Thursday.

Speaking during the weekly press briefing, Andrabi stated, “The presence of terrorist elements in Afghanistan poses a serious threat to regional peace and security. These groups are also undermining Afghanistan’s own stability and development.”

The UNSC report specifically highlights the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Daesh Khorasan, Al-Qaeda, and other foreign militant groups, some of which are involved in planning cross-border attacks. Andrabi emphasized that the TTP remains the most significant regional threat, operating from safe havens inside Afghanistan. He added that Pakistan continues to support diplomatic engagement to tackle shared security challenges in the region.

The report also notes internal differences within the Taliban leadership regarding the TTP, with some members seeing the group as damaging to Pakistan-Afghanistan relations while others maintain support. Close links between Al-Qaeda and the Taliban are highlighted, with Daesh-K identified as the Taliban’s principal rival.

Clarifying the nature of the ceasefire between Pakistan and Afghanistan, Andrabi explained it was meant to prevent terrorist attacks inside Pakistan. However, he stressed that the arrangement was not honored, leading to continued cross-border attacks. “Pakistan implemented the ceasefire in good faith, but attacks have continued, proving the ceasefire did not hold,” he said.

On another note, Andrabi condemned the recent Bondi Beach attack in Australia, extending condolences to the victims and their families. He criticized attempts to falsely link the attack to Pakistan, calling the claims “regrettable and irresponsible.” Investigations later confirmed the attacker was of Indian origin. Andrabi further condemned Indian media outlets for spreading unverified and misleading reports, warning that such coverage seriously undermines media credibility.

Addressing a separate human rights issue in India, Andrabi called the removal of a Muslim woman’s hijab by the Bihar Chief Minister “deeply disturbing.” He condemned the mocking of the act by other officials, warning it normalizes the humiliation of Muslim women and reflects rising religious intolerance. He urged Indian authorities to uphold minority rights and respect for religious freedoms.