Pakistan Claims Peace Talks with Afghanistan Collapse Amid Cross-Border Tensions
Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has declared that peace talks with Afghanistan, held in Istanbul, have collapsed, citing ongoing cross-border tensions that threaten the Qatar-brokered ceasefire. The Afghan Taliban’s spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, confirmed the breakdown, claiming Islamabad’s demand for Afghanistan to assume responsibility for Pakistan’s internal security is beyond Kabul’s capacity. The stalemate follows recent border clashes and mutual accusations of attacks, with both nations blaming the other for triggering the violence near Spin Bold, a border town in southern Afghanistan.
The talks, part of a third round in Turkey, aimed to resolve escalating tensions after a failed ceasefire agreement in Doha last month. Asif highlighted the need for a written agreement, rejecting verbal assurances, while Mujahid maintained that the existing ceasefire remains intact. The situation underscores the deepening challenge of maintaining regional stability amid ongoing security concerns.
The latest developments come amid rising tensions between the two South Asian neighbors, who clashed last month in the worst violence since the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan in 2021. The escalation had been attributed to border security and militant activity. Islamabad accused Kabul of sheltering Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) fighters, a claim the Taliban administration has consistently denied. The ongoing conflict remains a critical issue for regional security, with both nations facing pressures from domestic and international actors.
Despite the breakdown of talks, both Pakistan and Afghanistan have pledged to uphold the existing ceasefire. However, the lack of a formal agreement has left the situation hanging in the balance, raising concerns about the potential for renewed violence. The failure to reach a lasting solution highlights the complexities of addressing deep-seated security and political issues between the two countries.
As the situation continues to unfold, diplomatic efforts and regional mediation will remain crucial in preventing further escalation. The involvement of Qatar and Turkey in brokering peace efforts underscores the importance of international support in addressing the ongoing crisis. However, without a resolution to the underlying security concerns, the risk of renewed hostilities remains a significant threat to regional stability.