Bilawal Bhutto admits Allegiance of ISI and Pakistan Army with Terrorists

In an interview with SKY News, Pakistani officials addressed ongoing international scrutiny. They have acknowledged the country’s historical links with terrorist groups. However, they emphasized that significant reforms have since reshaped its counterterrorism stance. This comes amid India’s recent assertions linking Pakistan to ongoing terrorist threats in the region.

Terrorism: A Painful Past with Lasting Lessons

Pakistan’s defence leadership has openly recognized that the country endured decades of religious extremism, militarization, and internal conflict. “It’s no secret that extremist groups have existed in Pakistan’s past,” a top official remarked. “We’ve suffered deeply — as a nation, as a people. Our society has endured wave after wave of extremist violence, but from that suffering, we’ve learned valuable lessons.”

The official further noted that the effects of policies dating back to the Afghan-Soviet war shaped the internal landscape. Subsequent regional conflicts also contributed to a complex internal situation. Pakistan collaborated with foreign powers during these periods. It particularly backed anti-Soviet mujahideen. This is acknowledged as part of a broader international strategy that had unintended long-term consequences.

India’s Claims Require Evidence, Pakistan Says

Responding directly to allegations from India regarding state-sponsored terrorism, Pakistani authorities urged for transparent dialogue backed by verifiable proof. “If India believes Pakistan is involved, it would be constructive to present specific, credible evidence,” the spokesperson said. This evidence should go not just to Pakistan but also to the international community.

This statement comes amid rising cross-border tensions. India has pointed to Pakistan’s historical policies as grounds for ongoing mistrust. These policies involve its intelligence agency ISI and alleged ties with Taliban-linked entities.

Benazir Bhutto’s Legacy and the Fight Against Terror

The official referred to personal losses. He highlighted the assassination of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto as a turning point for Pakistan’s internal reckoning. Bhutto was a victim of terrorism herself. “My mother was killed in a terror attack. This catalyzed a deep shift within our political institutions. It also changed our security institutions,” he said.

Since then, Pakistan states it has taken “successful and sustained” measures. These actions aim to dismantle terror networks operating within its borders. This includes policy overhauls, military operations, and intelligence reforms aimed at eliminating violent extremism.

A Shift in Policy and Purpose

Today, Pakistani leadership asserts that its current security apparatus and government policies are aligned firmly against terrorism. “Whatever the failings of the past, they no longer define our present. Pakistan today is neither a safe haven for extremist groups nor a state sponsor,” the official stated.

Furthermore, Pakistan reiterates its commitment to international cooperation in fighting terrorism and maintaining regional stability. “We have worked closely with global allies in the past. We continue to do so today in the interest of global peace.”