KABUL - An extraordinary session of the Wolesi Jirga, denouncing yesterday's daring attacks, said on Monday the militants were taking advantage of the government's indistinct peace policy and safe haven in neighboring countries.
Forty-seven people, including militants, were killed and 65 others wounded during the coordinated group assaults in Kabul, Nangarhar, Logar and Paktia provinces. The Taliban launched a daring blitz on diplomatic missions and other high-security areas in the capital.

The attackers in Nangarhar and Paktia were gunned down on Sunday, but those in Kabul and Logar put up strong resistance. Assaults on the governor' office in Logar and the parliament building in Kabul lasted 19 hours.

During its special session, the lower house slammed the attacks, saying:"We believe those who are killing our people and perpetrating other inhuman acts are getting advantage of sanctuaries in the neighborhood and the Afghan government's unclear peace policy."

In a statement, the lawmakers asked the authorities concerned to grant promotions to officers and cash awards for the soldiers who courageously and professionally responded to the complex attacks and thwarted them in a professional manner.

While stressing the need for greater coordination among security forces to foil such attacks, the legislators said: "Intelligence agencies should not give time to the enemy to implement their plots."

Speaker Abdul Rauf Ibrahimi accused the Taliban of having no intention to make peace with the Afghan government. The rulers must review their peace strategy, otherwise the future would hold more formidable security challenges for them, he warned.

Mohammad Naeem Hamidzai Lalai, a lawmaker from Kandahar province, blamed Afghan forces for failing to maintain security. "The terrorists' entry to the heart of the city shows the weakness of our security forces." He suggested a reshuffle of senior security officials.

Nazifa Zaki, a woman legislator from Kabul, said there were many capable and talented figures who could be considered for leading the security forces. (Pajhwok)