TTP-India Nexus exposed again amid Pakistan’s Cross-Border strikes in Afghanistan

ISLAMABAD – A fresh diplomatic row erupted between Pakistan and India after Islamabad dismissed New Delhi’s criticism of cross-border strikes targeting TTP hideouts in Afghanistan. The development comes after major intelligence-based operation conducted by Pakistan’s security forces along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border on Sunday night. The ground offensive was followed by calibrated strikes on terrorist hideouts and safe havens, which Pakistani authorities said killed over 2 dozen terrorists. India’s Ministry of External Affairs subsequently condemned Pakistan’s military action, calling it a “blatant act of aggression” and warning that it posed a “direct threat” to regional peace and stability. Pakistan repeatedly alleged that Delhi continues to facilitate Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other militant organizations operating from Afghan territory. India’s external intelligence agency, RAW faced accusations of financial assistance, training, and logistical support to TTP through networks allegedly established in Afghanistan. These accusations became more pronounced after resurgence of TTP following the withdrawal of US and NATO forces from Afghanistan and in the aftermath of several high-profile terrorist attacks inside Pakistan. In recent years, these deadly militant organizations adapted their methods by combining armed violence with political messaging. It alleges that TTP and the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM), despite their different modes of operation, ultimately serve similar strategic objectives aimed at weakening Pakistan’s security institutions. The report further claims that these activities are coordinated with external support from RAW. These allegations remain contested and have not been independently verified by international bodies. Pakistan’s counterterrorism framework also advanced amid response to changing dynamics. To strengthen national security, Pakistan advanced expanding