Istanbul Talks Collapse: TTP Dispute Halts Pakistan-Afghan Dialogue

A critical round of Pakistan-Afghanistan talks in Istanbul has ended in failure, with no agreement reached after four days of discussions. Sources indicate the negotiations faltered due to significant disagreements, particularly concerning the status of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Afghanistan’s airspace. The Pakistani delegation reportedly exited the talks, leaving diplomatic efforts stalled. This comes after a recent escalation involving alleged Pakistani airspace violations, prompting a response from Kabul. Afghanistan reaffirmed its commitment to not allow its soil to be used for anti-Pakistan activities. However, Kabul also presented its own demands, insisting that Pakistan cease violating Afghan airspace and halt drone operations within the country. Pakistan’s refusal to meet these demands has deepened the diplomatic impasse. Adding to the complexity, Pakistan urged Afghanistan to formally designate the TTP as a terrorist organization and undertake military action against them. Afghanistan’s Defense Minister dismissed this, implying that such designations are politically motivated. The failure of these talks raises concerns, especially given Pakistan’s prior warnings about potential military intervention if dialogue proved unproductive, contrasting with Afghanistan’s preference for diplomatic solutions.