In a significant escalation of its campaign, the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has issued a direct threat against Pakistan’s major cities, warning of attacks in Lahore, Islamabad, and Karachi. This strategic pivot away from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is attributed by the TTP to the ongoing ‘unlawful expulsion’ of Afghan Pashtuns, and the group insists that those responsible within Pakistan’s administration must face consequences.
The Pakistani military has responded with a strong stance, viewing any cross-border strikes from Khyber as acts that could lead to outright war. Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif, the military’s spokesperson, affirmed that Pakistan would retaliate militarily against any attacks, warning the TTP not to underestimate the army’s strength or determination.
Despite these official warnings, the TTP’s recent actions suggest they are preparing for a sustained confrontation. The group has also publicly announced its withdrawal from Tirah Valley after engaging with local elders’ councils. This move, conveyed via press releases to global media, is stated to be an effort to shield civilians from harm during any subsequent military operations.
The TTP’s stated reason for leaving the Tirah Valley, a region that has experienced substantial military operations and reported civilian casualties, is to deny the Pakistani army a pretext for harming local Pashtun residents. Adding fuel to the fire, a provocative video surfaced featuring a militant vandalizing portraits of Pakistan’s founding leaders, an act interpreted as a direct challenge to the nation’s authority.