DLP Report
NOWSHERA
The provincial president of Awami National Party (ANP) Mian Iftikhar Hussain has warned that escalating tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan were detrimental to both countries, with Pakhtuns on both sides bearing the brunt.
Speaking to media representatives at the Nowshera Press Club here on Thursday, he urged both nations to respect each other’s sovereignty and resolve issues through diplomatic channels, negotiations, and dialogue.
He criticized Pakistan’s past policies in Afghanistan, stating that the current Afghan leadership’s unwillingness to cooperate reflects a failure of earlier strategies.
ANP leader also called for international and regional mediators to ensure a sustainable and lasting ceasefire between the two countries.
Highlighting security concerns, he questioned the resettlement of 40,000 terrorists and the release of 102 individuals, saying that the National Action Plan (NAP) to eliminate terrorism has not been fully implemented.
He said that decades of unrest in KP and Balochistan show the dangers of repeated conflict. He criticized US and Israeli actions against Iran, describing them as unjustified, and stressed that Iran has the right to defend itself amid international sanctions. He also expressed concern that the policies of the United States, particularly during Trump’s tenure, have threatened regional peace and risk escalating tensions toward a broader conflict.
Reiterating ANP’s commitment to non-violence and Bacha Khan’s philosophy, Hussain emphasized that war is not a solution to any problem. He urged Iran, the US, and Israel to resolve differences through dialogue and said Pakistan could play a positive mediating role but must avoid involvement in private wars.
On the occasion, he congratulated the newly elected officials of the Nowshera Press Club, reiterating ANP’s support for free journalism and pledging to advocate for journalists’ rights, media freedom, and the protection of democratic values.
