In a strong rebuff following the collapse of recent peace negotiations, the Taliban government in Kabul has declared that Afghan soil will not be used for any hostile purposes. The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan issued a direct warning to Pakistan, emphasizing its unwavering resolve to protect its territory and citizens from any form of aggression. This assertive declaration reiterates Afghanistan’s fundamental policy of not allowing its land to be exploited against any nation or for any actions that threaten regional security.
The Taliban official spokesman articulated that defending Afghanistan is a sacred duty, both religiously and nationally. This firm commitment was expressed after Kabul leveled accusations against specific factions within the Pakistani military, alleging their pursuit of policies that destabilize Afghanistan. The Taliban claims these military elements perceive a stable Afghan state as detrimental to their interests and actively seek to create friction through manufactured pretexts, particularly during periods of regional instability.
The recent months have seen a significant escalation in tensions, marked by fatal border skirmishes that resulted in numerous casualties on both sides. A ceasefire, mediated by Qatar in October, has brought a temporary lull but remains precarious. The Taliban conveyed its dissatisfaction with the Pakistani delegation’s conduct during the failed talks, labeling it “irresponsible and non-cooperative.” Nevertheless, the group extended an olive branch to the Pakistani populace, calling them “brothers” and advocating for mutual peace and stability.
Addressing Pakistan’s repeated assertions that the Taliban’s takeover facilitated the growth of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the Islamic Emirate vehemently denied these allegations as unfounded. The Taliban’s representative stressed that internal Pakistani militancy is an ongoing issue that predates their rule, characterizing it as an “internal issue” for Pakistan rather than a problem created by the current Afghan administration.
Kabul also highlighted proactive steps taken to enhance regional security, such as facilitating dialogue among community leaders, relocating populations from the Durand Line, and enforcing weapon bans in refugee settlements. The ongoing diplomatic stalemate and border tensions underscore the volatile regional dynamics and the critical need to prevent further conflict.