Islamabad Dismisses Viral Clips as Staged Propaganda
Pakistan’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has categorically dismissed claims circulating on social media regarding the removal of barbed wire fencing along the volatile Pak-Afghan border. In a statement released Wednesday, the ministry labeled the reports as “fabricated and devoid of facts,” attributing them to propaganda efforts by the Afghan Taliban regime and its alleged backers.
A History of Tension and Infiltration
The ministry’s fact-check unit stated that all video clips uploaded by Taliban-affiliated outlets are “staged, outdated and part of propaganda tactics.” It accused the Kabul regime of working “hand in glove with terrorists, smugglers and criminal mafia” to facilitate cross-border infiltration. The 2,640-kilometer border, characterized by rugged terrain, is primarily guarded by Pakistani forces.
Security Dynamics and Military Response
The complex security situation was reportedly explained in detail during a November press conference by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry. The ministry asserted that the border fence is “fully intact” and that any attempted breaches are met with a “heavy and disproportionate response.” It cited ongoing military operations, including ‘Operation Ghazab lil-Haq,’ which it claims has led to the destruction of over 250 border posts and the capture of dozens more from militant groups.
Familiar Tactics and a “Make-Believe World”
Characterizing the Taliban’s actions as cowardly, the ministry stated that their operatives briefly appear to record staged content before fleeing. “Such content creation confirms not only the cowardly nature of these ‘Kharjis’ and the Taliban but also how they live in a make-believe world of propaganda and deceit,” the release added. It further alleged that the regime, frustrated by recent setbacks, has “resorted to a familiar litany of lies to satisfy their domestic audience.”
Broader Accusations of Disinformation
The statement expanded its criticism, accusing the Afghan Taliban and “their Indian masters” of a pattern of frivolous claims. It referenced past disinformation, including false reports about capturing Pakistani military equipment and personnel. “Any claims by the Afghan Taliban or their media cannot be trusted,” the ministry concluded, urging the public to disregard the viral reports.
