The Taliban government in Kabul has issued a stern warning to Pakistan, vowing to defend Afghan territory against any aggression following the collapse of recent peace talks. The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan emphasized its ‘principled position’ that Afghan soil will not be permitted for use in hostile activities against any nation, nor will any country be allowed to compromise Afghanistan’s sovereignty or security. The official spokesman for the Islamic Emirate stated that defending the nation’s land and people is both an Islamic and national obligation. This strong stance comes amid accusations from Kabul that elements within the Pakistani military are actively undermining Afghanistan’s stability and seeking to create tensions through fabricated pretexts, viewing a strong Afghan government as a threat to their interests. The relationship between the two neighbors has become increasingly strained due to recent deadly border clashes. While the Taliban expressed gratitude to Turkey and Qatar for their mediation efforts in the failed dialogue, they also voiced disappointment with Pakistan’s ‘irresponsible and non-cooperative’ approach. The group categorically dismissed Pakistani claims linking the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) to their return to power, labeling these accusations as ‘false and baseless’ and asserting that militancy within Pakistan is a long-standing internal issue predating 2021. Kabul highlighted measures taken to promote regional stability, including fostering dialogue, relocating refugees from border areas, and prohibiting weapons in refugee camps. The current diplomatic stalemate and heightened border tensions underscore the precarious regional dynamics and the ongoing challenges to maintaining peace.
