The latest round of peace talks between Pakistan and Taliban-led Afghanistan, brokered by Turkey, ended without resolution, deepening tensions between the two neighbouring nations.
Despite hopes for progress toward a ceasefire agreement, both sides emerged from the discussions accusing each other of obstructing a fair deal.
Talks end in deadlock
According to reports from the AP, the negotiations reached an impasse as both delegations refused to compromise on key security issues.
Pakistani officials accused the Taliban of rejecting what they described as “logical and legitimate demands” concerning Islamabad’s national security.
Meanwhile, Afghan representatives claimed that Pakistan’s delegation was “unwilling” and “disorganised,” with some members allegedly leaving the negotiating table multiple times.
Heightened tensions
With the ceasefire at risk, tensions escalated further after the Taliban warned Pakistan against launching any new attacks along the Durand Line.
“Any assault will be met with a reciprocal response,” the Taliban reportedly declared through Afghan media outlet TOLO News.
The warning followed Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif’s controversial remarks hinting at the possibility of an “open war” if peace efforts failed.
Pakistan’s alleged pact with foreign nation
Citing TOLO News, Pakistan’s delegation allegedly admitted during the discussions that it had a pact with an unnamed foreign country allowing drone strikes within Afghan territory.
Islamabad reportedly stated it could not prevent these strikes without violating the agreement.
This disclosure has sparked speculation, especially given Pakistan’s recent Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement with Saudi Arabia and its renewed cooperation with the United States.
Taliban vows retaliation
Reacting strongly to Pakistan’s admission, the Taliban leadership warned of severe consequences in the event of further air or drone strikes.
“If Afghanistan’s territory is bombed, Islamabad will be targeted,” TOLO quoted Taliban officials as saying Pakistan-Afghanistan peace talks collapse in Turkey amid mutual blame
