TTP becoming umbrella group for regional militants, Pakistan tells UN

 Pakistan has warned the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) that the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is evolving into an umbrella organisation for militant groups in the region, with Afghanistan’s ruling Taliban authorities complicit in its cross-border attacks.

Speaking at a UNSC session on Afghanistan, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Munir Akram, accused Kabul of providing safe havens to militants who have intensified attacks on Pakistani soil. He warned that Afghanistan is now home to more than 20 terrorist groups, posing a direct threat to regional stability.

"We have evidence that the Kabul authorities have not only tolerated but are complicit in the conduct of the TTP’s terrorist cross-border attacks," Akram told the Council.

The Pakistani envoy said the TTP, which has an estimated 6,000 fighters, has become the largest terrorist outfit operating from Afghan territory. He alleged that the group enjoys operational freedom and support from elements within Afghanistan’s government.

He also warned that the TTP is collaborating with other militant organisations, such as the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and the Majeed Brigade, both of which have been involved in attacks targeting Pakistan’s security forces and Chinese investments in the country.