Afghanistan’s Taliban administration has issued a stark warning to Pakistan, declaring its absolute refusal to permit any nation from utilizing Afghan territory for hostile actions. This firm declaration follows the collapse of the latest round of peace talks, intensifying regional diplomatic friction.
The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan conveyed its resolve to defend its people and territory against any form of aggression, emphasizing that it would not allow any country to compromise its sovereignty or security by using Afghan land for malicious purposes.
“The defense of the people and the land of Afghanistan is both an Islamic and national duty of the Islamic Emirate,” an official statement confirmed. “Afghanistan will defend itself against any aggression.”
Gratitude was expressed towards Turkey and Qatar for their mediation efforts in the failed peace dialogue, acknowledging them as “two brotherly nations.”
Accusations Against Pakistan’s Military Factions
The Taliban’s strong stance comes after Kabul accused specific factions within the Pakistani military of engaging in policies that destabilize Afghanistan. The Taliban claims that these “certain military elements” are deliberately creating tensions through “manufactured pretexts,” viewing a stable and prosperous Afghanistan as a direct threat to their objectives.
“Unfortunately, some military elements in Pakistan appear to consider Afghanistan’s stability, security, and development as threats to their objectives,” the Taliban stated, adding that these elements allegedly exploit periods of unrest to sow instability.
Border Tensions Flare Amidst Fragile Ceasefire
Relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan have significantly deteriorated recently, following deadly border clashes that resulted in casualties on both sides. The violence erupted after explosions in Kabul on October 9th, coinciding with the Taliban foreign minister’s visit to India. A Qatar-brokered ceasefire on October 19th has since brought a fragile calm to the border.
The Taliban expressed disappointment with the Pakistani delegation’s “irresponsible and non-cooperative” attitude, which they believe led to the collapse of the talks. Despite the diplomatic tensions, the group extended goodwill to the “Muslim people of Pakistan,” calling them “brothers” and hoping for peace and stability.
Taliban Denies Links to TTP
The Islamic Emirate has strongly refuted Pakistan’s allegations that the rise of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is linked to the Taliban’s return to power. Kabul labels these accusations as “false and baseless.”
The Taliban spokesperson asserted that militancy within Pakistan is not a new phenomenon and that significant incidents occurred long before 2021. “The problem is primarily Pakistan’s internal issue, not one caused by the Islamic Emirate,” the spokesperson clarified.
Kabul’s Measures for Stability
The Taliban government outlined several initiatives aimed at promoting regional stability. These include encouraging dialogue among religious and political leaders, relocating tribal refugees from the Durand Line areas, and prohibiting weapons within refugee communities.
As diplomatic channels falter and border tensions persist, the Taliban’s stern warning underscores the precarious state of regional relations and the challenges in achieving lasting peace.