ISTANBUL: In a bid to de-escalate rising tensions, Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban regime commenced their third round of discussions in Istanbul today (Thursday). These talks come after a previous five-day negotiating session that concluded with a tentative agreement aimed at stabilizing the border situation.
The second round of negotiations, which started on October 25 in Istanbul, ended prematurely after disagreements emerged. Pakistan criticized the Taliban delegation’s arguments as “illogical” and expressed concerns over cross-border terrorism, which Islamabad views as a significant threat. Despite the setbacks, mediators encouraged both sides to continue dialogue, leading to an agreement to maintain a ceasefire and establish a monitoring mechanism.
A joint statement issued by Turkey’s foreign ministry at the conclusion of the last round highlighted consensus among the parties on the importance of peace. The statement specified that all involved parties agreed to implement a monitoring and verification system designed to uphold the ceasefire and impose penalties on those violating it.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s defense minister, speaking outside Parliament, mentioned that a delegation had left to resume negotiations with the Taliban representatives. He emphasized the need for Afghanistan to act prudently for regional stability, warning that stagnation in progress would be futile.
In an informal briefing earlier this week, Lt General Ahmed Sharif, Director-General of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), issued a stern warning that any external aggression directed at Pakistan would be met with a robust response. He also detailed Pakistan’s efforts against cross-border terrorists, many of whom are believed to be Afghan nationals, and criticized the Taliban for allowing safe havens and facilitating militants’ movements from Balochistan into civilian areas, reportedly using human shields.
Following the briefing, prominent journalist Hamid Mir noted that Pakistani authorities presented evidence of Taliban soldiers’ involvement in terrorist activities within Pakistan.
Tensions Between Islamabad and Kabul
Since the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan in 2021, Pakistan has faced a rise in terrorist incidents, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. Islamabad has repeatedly called on the Taliban to curb terrorist groups operating from Afghan territory, but these appeals have largely gone unheeded. Instead, the Taliban have maintained a stance of indifference, providing sanctuary to militant groups targeting Pakistani security forces and civilians.
Tensions escalated on October 12 when the Taliban regime launched unprovoked gunfire along the border, prompting Pakistan to respond swiftly. Pakistani security forces reported killing over 200 Taliban fighters and affiliated militants during operations, although 23 Pakistani soldiers lost their lives in the clashes. Pakistan also launched cross-border strikes into Afghanistan, targeting terrorist hideouts in Kabul and other areas.
A ceasefire was temporarily agreed upon on October 17, following a request from the Taliban, allowing for diplomatic talks. This was followed by negotiations mediated by Qatar in Doha, where both sides reached an understanding to maintain the ceasefire. The subsequent second round of talks was hosted by Turkey in Istanbul, lasting from October 25 to October 31, with efforts now underway to reach a lasting resolution.
