Security sources have responded to questions circulating in public discourse regarding the evolving regional situation involving Afghanistan, Iran and broader geopolitical dynamics, asserting that Pakistan’s policy remains measured and stable.
According to the sources, Pakistan’s approach towards Iran is “balanced,” adding that diplomatic engagement has continued at international forums, including acknowledgement by Tehran at the United Nations.
They emphasised that comparisons between Pakistan and regional states such as Afghanistan or Iran are misplaced, maintaining that Pakistan follows an independent national security and foreign policy framework. “Pakistan is neither Iran nor Afghanistan — Pakistan is Pakistan,” the sources stated, urging the public not to be concerned about speculation regarding regional developments.
Highlighting strategic capabilities, the sources noted that both Pakistan and Iran initiated nuclear programmes around the same time, but Pakistan attained nuclear power status within a decade. They added that despite differences in defence spending — citing Iran’s defence budget at approximately $30 billion compared to Pakistan’s $9 billion — the country’s military preparedness remains widely recognised.
On foreign policy, the sources said Pakistan maintains relations with a broad spectrum of global powers including China, Russia, United States and Arab nations, reiterating that Islamabad is moving forward through diversified diplomatic partnerships.
Regarding ongoing counterterrorism efforts, security officials stated that operations linked to militant threats emanating from Afghan territory are progressing successfully and are limited strictly to military targets. They stressed that Pakistan has no issue with the Afghan people, clarifying that the actions are directed against terrorist elements and their facilitators.
The sources further called for the handover of individuals allegedly involved in terrorism, including Noor Wali and Bashir Zeb, and warned that operations would continue until a “logical conclusion” is achieved. They maintained that regime change in Afghanistan is not Pakistan’s objective and remains an internal matter for Kabul.
Security officials also underlined the need for greater internal stability, saying peaceful protest is a constitutional right but violence against public property would trigger action by law enforcement agencies. They added that recent cyber incidents involving media channels had been addressed and the national communication system had been fully restored.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s stance, the sources concluded that the country reserves the right to defend itself against terrorism wherever it originates, while continuing to engage constructively with regional and global partners.