Overview
- Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif said India seeks to keep Pakistan engaged on its eastern and western borders and alleged Kabul is serving New Delhi’s interests.
- Pakistan agreed to continue a ceasefire with Afghanistan, with negotiators citing a three-point understanding that includes verification arrangements and penalties for violations.
- Reports from TOLO News, relayed by Times Now, said Pakistani negotiators acknowledged a pact allowing U.S. drone operations from Pakistani soil, a claim not independently confirmed.
- The latest statements come after Pakistan’s October 9 strikes on alleged TTP sanctuaries in Afghanistan and Doha-brokered ceasefire talks on October 18–19, followed by Istanbul discussions.
- United Nations sources have estimated more than 6,000 TTP fighters are based in Afghanistan, while the Daily Times reports steep rises in Pakistan’s terrorism toll in 2024–2025.