Pakistan is grappling with the TTP (Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan) and other insurgent groups like the BLA. The Pakistani government has consistently accused the Afghan Taliban of assisting the TTP, alleging that they are providing refuge to TTP militants. Recent reports shed light on the extent of this support.
A report in Pakistan Today indicates that the Afghan Taliban is providing consistent financial aid to the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). This includes a monthly payment of approximately 30 lakh Afghanis, equivalent to $43,000 USD, to the family of TTP leader Noor Wali Mehsud.
This financial assistance is allegedly utilized for the procurement of weaponry, development of military infrastructure, and the planning and execution of attacks against Pakistan. The report also indicates that the Taliban provides safe havens and training camps for the TTP in several Afghan provinces, including Kunar, Nangarhar, Paktika, and Khost, enabling the group to expand its recruitment and operational capabilities.
The report highlights that the Taliban has offered sanctuary to TTP commanders and fighters, allowing them to regroup, fortify their networks, and launch cross-border operations. Furthermore, the TTP also independently generates funds through criminal activities, extortion, donations, and financial backing from larger terrorist organizations.
Pakistani authorities have repeatedly accused the Afghan Taliban of supporting the TTP. However, the Taliban has repeatedly denied these accusations, maintaining that Pakistan’s security concerns are internal matters that must be addressed within the country. The issue of the TTP has, on multiple occasions, led to disagreements between the two entities.