Pakistan-Afghanistan Talks Collapse After Afghan Taliban Refuse Written Anti-Terror Pledge

In a setback to regional stability, the latest round of peace negotiations between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban has concluded without any breakthrough on the critical issue of cross-border terrorism. High-level officials from both sides engaged in intense discussions over two days, but the impasse remained unbreakable, leaving tensions simmering between the two neighboring nations. The talks, which were aimed at fostering cooperation and reducing hostilities, highlighted deep-seated mistrust, particularly regarding the use of Afghan territory by militant groups targeting Pakistan.

The third round of these crucial dialogues kicked off on Thursday in an effort to address longstanding grievances, yet it failed to secure a written commitment from the Afghan side to crack down on Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) operatives allegedly operating from their soil. Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif revealed in a candid interview with a private TV channel that the negotiations had been abruptly suspended, with no immediate plans for a follow-up session. This revelation underscores the growing frustration in Islamabad, as previous attempts at dialogue have similarly stalled, raising questions about the viability of future diplomatic engagements.

Asif expressed gratitude towards the mediating countries, Turkiye and Qatar, for their dedicated efforts in trying to bridge the gap between the conflicting parties. However, he emphasized that while verbal assurances were floated during the talks, Pakistan insists on a formal, documented agreement to ensure accountability and prevent future breaches. The minister pointed out that international norms demand more than just oral promises, especially in matters of national security, and lamented how the Afghan delegation's reluctance to commit in writing led to the complete breakdown of the process.

Also Read: India and New Zealand Take Major Step Toward Free Trade Pact as Negotiations Deepen

Further elaborating on the situation, Asif noted that the mediators had exhausted their options, ultimately conceding that optimism for a resolution had faded. He reiterated Pakistan's unwavering stance that Afghan soil must not be used as a launchpad for attacks against its territory, warning of proportionate responses to any provocations while affirming commitment to the ongoing ceasefire in the absence of aggression. This firm position reflects Pakistan's broader strategy to protect its borders amid escalating regional threats, even as it navigates complex geopolitical dynamics.

In a separate statement on social media platform X, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar placed the responsibility squarely on the Afghan Taliban to honor their international and bilateral obligations in combating terrorism, criticizing their failure to do so thus far. He affirmed that Pakistan harbors no animosity towards the Afghan people but will not tolerate actions that undermine regional peace or its own sovereignty. The sequence of talks, which began on October 29 in Doha following border clashes earlier that month, has now seen three fruitless rounds—in Doha, Istanbul, and the latest—highlighting the urgent need for renewed diplomatic initiatives to prevent further escalation.

Also Read: Trump Refuses to Restart Trade Talks With Canada Over “Fraudulent” Anti-Tariff Ad