Brussels,February 27, 2026 (Unib Rashid) — Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Attaullah Tarar, has strongly condemned the Afghan Taliban, describing the administration in Kabul as an “illegitimate regime” responsible for repression, cross-border terrorism, and systematic violations of fundamental human rights, particularly against women and minorities.

In a detailed media address on Thursday, the Minister stated that the Afghan Taliban leadership has resorted to propaganda while continuing to provide safe havens, training, and facilitation to terrorist elements responsible for attacks inside Pakistan. He referred to recent incidents targeting civilians and security personnel, including attacks on a Shiite mosque and a district court, as well as the martyrdom of Lt. Col. Gulfar Ahmed.

Minister Tarar emphasized that Pakistan’s armed forces responded effectively to recent unprovoked aggression originating from Afghan territory, neutralizing attackers and securing defensive positions. He reiterated that Pakistan remains committed to safeguarding its sovereignty and protecting its citizens from terrorism.

Beyond regional security concerns, the Minister delivered sharp criticism of the Afghan Taliban’s internal governance, asserting that the regime seized power through force and operates without democratic legitimacy or public mandate. He described the administration’s policies as a “perversion of religion,” arguing that religious principles are being misused to justify authoritarian control and social repression.

Highlighting newly introduced criminal regulations, Minister Tarar said the Taliban’s legal framework promotes systemic discrimination and inequality. According to the Minister, the regulations create a hierarchical justice structure in which different social classes are treated unequally under the law, while practices resembling servitude and coercion are given legal recognition. He termed these measures a clear violation of international human rights norms, contemporary Islamic scholarly consensus, and the principles reflected in the Cairo Declaration on Human Rights in Islam.

The Minister also expressed grave concern over the treatment of women and children in Afghanistan. He noted that girls are barred from education beyond early adolescence and that women face severe restrictions on employment, mobility, and participation in public life. According to the Minister, women have been excluded from decision-making structures and face strict enforcement measures limiting their basic freedoms, while access to essential services, including healthcare and vaccinations, has been severely constrained.

Referring to findings cited in a February 12, 2026 report presented to the United Nations Security Council, Minister Tarar highlighted allegations of serious human rights violations, including abuses targeting women and girls. He also referenced international legal developments indicating scrutiny of senior Taliban leadership over alleged gender-based persecution.

“The Afghan Taliban regime is built on repression and fear,” Minister Tarar stated, adding that its policies and practices “have nothing to do with the true teachings of Islam.”

Pakistan called upon the international community, including partners in Europe and beyond, to take cognizance of ongoing human rights violations, systemic discrimination, and the threat posed by terrorism emanating from Afghan territory. The Minister underscored Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace, stability, and the protection of universal human rights.