ISLAMABAD/ISTANBUL/KABUL – Talks between Pakistan and Afghan Taliban are underway amid soaring tensions and conflict over terrorism, borders, and regional stability as both sides have exchanged proposals, but the talks are far from smooth, with allegations, ultimatums, and ideological clashes dominating the agenda.
Pakistani delegation presented its “final stance” to the Afghan Taliban, warning that patronizing terrorists will not be tolerated. “Concrete and decisive action must be taken to end the Taliban’s support for militants,” the sources said. Pakistani officials also described the Taliban’s arguments as “illogical and detached from ground realities”, accusing them of following an agenda that threatens regional stability.
Afghan Taliban want Pakistan to refrain from violating Afghan airspace and territory and ensure that no hostile groups use Pakistan against Afghanistan. Taliban delegation reportedly expressed willingness to form mechanism for implementing the Doha ceasefire agreement, signaling a potential, though fragile, breakthrough.
As the situation remains volatile on the ground. Pakistan’s military reported that attempts to infiltrate from Afghanistan were foiled, resulting in 25 militants killed. Armed force spox claimed that these attacks, carried out by the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), coincided with Istanbul negotiations, raising “doubts about the interim Afghan government’s intentions.”
Under Doha agreement, the Afghan Taliban are required to prevent their territory from being used against Pakistan.
Taliban turning Blind Eye to TTP Attacks
Most Afghans do not accept Durand Line as an international border, making any concession potential domestic flashpoint. Pakistan, however, made it clear that any future attacks will be met with immediate response.
Taliban bluntly claim that attacks on Pakistan do not originate from their territory, blaming Pakistani militants for cross-border incidents. Acceptance of this mechanism would be a major diplomatic win for Islamabad.
TTP factor adds further complexity as Pakistan long demanded that Afghan Taliban take action against TTP militants operating from Afghan soil. It all stemmed to ‘holy alliance’ between Afghan Taliban and TTP, which dates back to 3-4 decades, making Taliban action against TTP highly sensitive. Taliban’s top leadership considers TTP an ally, while Haqqani Network has operational ties with the TTP, and fears that a crackdown could push them toward alliances with the so-called Islamic State.
Taliban government views TTP actions as Pakistan’s internal matter, unlike ISIS threat, which challenges their authority.
Istanbul talks: Pakistan presses Afghan Taliban to take decisive action against terrorists
