The Taliban government in Afghanistan has issued a strong and unequivocal warning to Pakistan, declaring that Afghan territory will not be permitted for use in any hostile operations against other nations. This declaration follows the breakdown of recent peace talks between Kabul and Islamabad, leading to heightened tensions.
The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan conveyed its resolute message, emphasizing that it would actively defend its people and land from any external aggression. The government firmly stated its policy against allowing any country to leverage Afghan soil for activities that could threaten regional security or sovereignty.
“We will not allow anyone to use Afghan soil for hostile activities,” an official spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate asserted. The statement reaffirmed Afghanistan’s commitment to its “principled position” of not allowing its territory to be used against others, nor permitting any nation to infringe upon its security.
Appreciation was extended to Turkey and Qatar for their efforts in mediating the failed dialogue, with both nations being described as “brotherly.”
Kabul Accuses Pakistani Military Elements
The Taliban’s strong warning comes in the wake of accusations leveled against specific factions within the Pakistani military. Kabul alleges that these elements are pursuing policies detrimental to Afghanistan’s stability and that they perceive a strong, secure Afghan government as a threat to their agendas.
“Certain military elements in Pakistan appear to consider Afghanistan’s stability, security, and development as threats to their objectives,” the Taliban’s statement explained, further accusing these groups of exploiting regional instability to further their own goals.
Escalating Border Clashes and a Fragile Truce
Recent weeks have seen a sharp escalation in tensions along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, marked by deadly clashes that have claimed numerous lives on both sides. This violence followed a series of explosions in Kabul on October 9th, a date that coincided with the Taliban foreign minister’s visit to India. A ceasefire, brokered by Qatar on October 19th, has since brought a fragile calm to the border region.
The Taliban voiced disappointment with the Pakistani delegation’s conduct during the peace talks, labeling it “irresponsible and non-cooperative,” which they claim led to the talks’ collapse. Nevertheless, the group extended an olive branch to the Pakistani populace, referring to them as “brothers” and expressing hopes for peace and stability.
Dismissing TTP Allegations
The Islamic Emirate has categorically rejected Pakistan’s claims that the resurgence of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is a direct consequence of the Taliban’s return to power. Kabul dismisses these accusations as “false and baseless.”
According to the Taliban spokesperson, militancy in Pakistan is a long-standing issue that predates 2021. “The problem is primarily Pakistan’s internal issue, not one caused by the Islamic Emirate,” the spokesperson clarified.
Kabul’s Efforts for Regional Stability
The Taliban administration has outlined several measures implemented to foster regional stability. These include encouraging dialogue among religious and political leaders, relocating tribal refugees from border areas, and prohibiting weapon possession within refugee settlements.
With diplomatic channels strained and border tensions remaining high, the Taliban’s firm warning highlights the volatile regional dynamics and the critical need for de-escalation.