Kabul, Sept. 19 -- Afghanistan has the right to defend its territory against any Pakistani military action, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said, warning Islamabad of a "crushing response" if it carries out strikes inside Afghanistan.

In an interview with Al Arabiya English, Mujahid rejected Pakistan's allegations that Afghan territory is being used by militant groups to recruit, train and launch attacks against Pakistan.

"If Pakistan invokes Article 51 to violate the sanctity of Afghan territory, Afghanistan has the right to defend its country, and we will do so," Mujahid said.

He warned that any military operation inside Afghanistan would constitute a violation of Afghan sovereignty and could trigger a strong response from Ka...