Afghanistan still hosts terrorist groups, UN report validates Pakistan’s position

A United Nations Security Council report has once again validated Pakistan’s long-standing position that Afghanistan continues to serve as a safe haven for terrorist groups, describing cross-border militancy as a serious and growing threat to regional security.

The report, which covers developments from May 29, 2024, to November 11, 2025, acknowledges Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts and labels them effective and commendable. At the same time, it warns that terrorist organisations operating from Afghan territory remain active and dangerous, contradicting Taliban claims that no such groups exist in the country.

According to the UN document, multiple countries have confirmed the continued presence and activities of terrorist groups in Afghanistan, including Daesh (ISKP), the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Al-Qaeda, and Jamaat Ansarullah. The report notes that the TTP has carried out attacks against Pakistan from Afghan soil, emerging as one of the most significant security threats.

The Security Council document states that the banned TTP has conducted nearly 600 attacks inside Pakistan this year, many of which were foiled by Pakistani security forces. It adds that the group has expanded its list of targets to include military-linked institutions and Chinese investment projects, raising concerns over regional stability and economic development.

The report further highlights that attacks launched from Afghanistan are negatively impacting peace, security and development across the region. It adds that the continued presence of proscribed terrorist organisations has led neighbouring countries to view Afghanistan as a source of instability.

The UN document also points to economic consequences, noting that border closures have caused Afghanistan to suffer losses of approximately USD one million per day. Additionally, the return of Afghan nationals since October 2023 has placed further strain on the country’s economy and public services.

Commending Pakistan’s counterterrorism operations, the report references the arrest on May 16 of Sultan Aziz Azzam, a Daesh spokesperson, by Pakistani authorities. It describes the Al-Azaim Foundation as a central organisation responsible for recruitment and propaganda activities for Daesh Khorasan.

The Security Council report stresses that terrorist groups operating from Afghanistan pose a grave threat to peace across the entire region and calls on Afghan authorities to ensure their territory is not used to provide safe havens to militant organisations.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s stance, the report notes that Islamabad remains firmly committed to the complete eradication of terrorism and continues to play a critical role in countering extremist threats at the regional and international levels.