ANP Leader Mian Iftikhar Hussain Claims U.S. Involvement in Terrorism in Kurram, Criticizes Provincial Government

Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Mian Iftikhar Hussain, the President of the Awami National Party (ANP) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has accused the United States of being behind the recent surge in terrorism in the Kurram district, suggesting that there are organized forces operating in the province to destabilize the region. Speaking at a protest organized by ANP to mark a “Black Day” against rising violence, Hussain condemned the attacks and claimed they were part of a larger conspiracy, including U.S. opposition to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Hussain, addressing a large crowd of ANP leadership and supporters, said, “The U.S. is continuously plotting against CPEC, and we strongly condemn the recent terrorist attacks in Kurram. These attacks are part of a broader, orchestrated effort to fuel sectarian violence in areas like Parachinar.” He further accused the provincial government, led by Chief Minister Mahmood Khan, of being indifferent to the growing insecurity and failing to address the root causes of the violence.
“Under the current government, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is being used for political rallies and personal gains rather than addressing the real issues,” Hussain stated, highlighting the lack of attention from the provincial administration to the rising threats. He called on the public to refrain from becoming pawns in what he described as terrorist conspiracies aimed at dividing communities.
Hussain also expressed his party’s solidarity with the people of Kurram and Parachinar, emphasizing that the ANP seeks peace and stability in the region. “We stand with the people of Kurram, and we urge the public not to get involved in sectarian violence. Our target is peace, and we will continue to support efforts to end terrorism in this region,” he said.
The ANP leader also pointed fingers at former military officials, accusing them of being behind the continued violence. “The remnants of General Faiz Hameed and his associates are still orchestrating these acts of terrorism,” he said, calling for their arrest.
Sardar Hussain Babak, another ANP leader, also spoke at the protest, emphasizing the displacement of Pashtun communities from their political rights, with particular focus on the marginalization of Pashtun representation in Parliament. He warned that police officers, who are bravely combating terrorism, were increasingly being targeted by militants.
In conclusion, ANP leaders reiterated their commitment to fighting terrorism and pledged to play an active role in bringing peace to Kurram and the broader region. They urged both the provincial and federal governments to take immediate action to address the growing threat of terrorism and ensure the safety of the people.