New Delhi, February 27: Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have escalated dramatically following a series of attacks that have left Islamabad fuming. Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has openly declared war, but a prominent Baloch leader believes the initiative now lies firmly with Kabul.
Moula Bakhsh Baloch, a cabinet member of the Free Balochistan Movement based in Finland, spoke exclusively to IANS. He asserted that the arrow has been released from the bow, and only Afghanistan can decide whether to pursue ceasefire or retaliation. ‘Pakistan is a terrorist state,’ he charged, exposing what he called Islamabad’s desperate bid for funding from its patrons.
Baloch accused Pakistan of staging attacks to portray itself as a victim of terrorism, despite being the perpetrator. ‘They have money problems and beg for funds by pretending to be victims,’ he said. ‘No religion sanctions targeting civilians, children, and women. The Pakistan army only understands the language of guns.’
He strongly condemned attacks during Ramadan, calling them a grave mistake. ‘Pakistan wants to please its masters, but this will backfire. Afghanistan fights for its people, and Pakistan will suffer.’ On Pakistan’s motives, Baloch was blunt: ‘It’s a terrorist nation promoting terror in Balochistan, Afghanistan, and India. The world must stop them.’
With Pakistan’s war declaration, Baloch warned that the next move belongs to Afghanistan. ‘The ball is in their court. They can end the conflict or seek revenge. This is their chance to clarify the Durand Line issue.’ The Durand Line, a 2,611 km colonial-era border, remains disputed, with Afghanistan rejecting it as divisive, fueling ongoing clashes.
As regional stakes rise, Baloch’s words underscore the deepening crisis, where historical grievances and modern aggressions collide, potentially reshaping South Asia’s fragile security landscape.