The US Department of State urged Afghanistan’s Taliban leadership on Tuesday to avoid terror attacks from their territory, while simultaneously requesting that Pakistan protect civilian security during counterterrorism operations.
A day earlier, Pakistani military conducted intelligence-based operations (IBOs) in Afghanistan’s border regions against militants launching strikes on Pakistan from Afghan soil in response to the March 16 incident.
At least seven Pakistan Army personnel were killed in the Mir Ali incident, including a lieutenant colonel and a captain, after they bravely fought terrorists as they stormed a security station in the Mir Ali district of North Waziristan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
“We deeply regret the loss of life and injustices sustained during the attack in Pakistan, as well as the loss of civilian lives during the strike in Afghanistan,” stated Vedant Patel, the State Department’s chief deputy spokesperson.
“We urge the Taliban to refrain from launching terrorist acts from Afghan soil, and we urge Pakistan to show caution and protect civilians during counterterrorism operations. “And we urge both sides to resolve any differences,” he continued.