In a bold statement, Chief Minister (CM) of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Mahmood Khan Gandapur, has blamed “international powers” for the ongoing violence and unrest in Kurram, a volatile region in the tribal areas of Pakistan.
The CM’s remarks came in response to escalating security concerns and repeated clashes between local factions and militant groups in the region, which have left several casualties in recent weeks.
Speaking at a press conference, Gandapur accused foreign entities of deliberately stoking tensions in Kurram to destabilize Pakistan’s progress and to further their own geopolitical interests. "International powers, with their own agendas, are fueling violence in Kurram and other tribal regions to create instability in Pakistan," he asserted, without naming any specific countries. The CM added that such external interventions were part of a broader strategy to weaken Pakistan’s sovereignty and hinder its development.
Kurram, located in the northwestern part of Pakistan, has been a hotspot for sectarian violence, militant activity, and ethnic tensions for years. The region has seen an increase in attacks by armed groups, including cross-border incursions from Afghanistan, making the situation even more complex. Locals have long complained about a lack of adequate government presence, poor infrastructure, and insufficient security.
Gandapur’s statement has sparked a mixed reaction. While some local leaders and citizens agree with the CM’s view on foreign interference, others believe the root cause of the violence lies within the region itself, including tribal conflicts and the proliferation of weapons.
The CM, however, emphasized that the provincial government is fully committed to addressing the security situation. He assured that additional security forces would be deployed, and efforts to engage local leaders and communities in peacebuilding would be intensified. "We are determined to restore peace in Kurram, and no effort will be spared in this regard," Gandapur vowed.
As the unrest continues, many are calling for greater collaboration between the provincial and federal governments to bring lasting peace to Kurram and its neighboring areas.
