Taliban Issues Warning to Pakistan Following Deadlocked Istanbul Peace Talks

ISTANBUL/SRINAGAR, Nov 9: The latest round of Afghanistan-Pakistan peace talks in Istanbul concluded without any agreement, with the Taliban accusing Pakistan of insincerity and attempting to shift responsibility for security issues onto Afghanistan.

In a statement released by Zabihullah Mujahid on November 8, the Taliban government thanked Turkey and Qatar for hosting and mediating the talks, emphasising that Afghan representatives had attended “in good faith and with appropriate authority.” However, the statement accused Pakistan of displaying an “irresponsible and non-cooperative attitude,” showing no willingness to take responsibility for regional security while attempting to hold Afghanistan accountable.

The Taliban reiterated its principled position that Afghanistan will not allow its territory to be used against another country and will defend its sovereignty and people. The statement also reaffirmed ties with the Muslim people of Pakistan, while stressing that cooperation will only occur “within the limits of its responsibilities and capabilities.”

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif admitted the talks had reached an “uncertain stage with no results,” with no immediate plans for a fourth round. Afghan officials warned Pakistan not to test the patience of Afghans, highlighting the potential for escalation along the border despite an existing ceasefire.

Zabihullah Mujahid further noted that the longstanding issue between the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Islamabad predates the Taliban’s takeover in Afghanistan and claimed that some factions within the Pakistani military have actively undermined peace efforts. The failed Istanbul talks have heightened mistrust and raised the risk of future confrontations, including possible drone strikes targeting civilians.