Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has issued a stark warning, asserting that Islamabad will 'declare war' on Afghanistan if the ongoing Pakistan-Afghanistan peace talks in Istanbul end in failure. These discussions are critical to addressing the escalating tensions and recent border skirmishes between the two nations.
According to reports from Afghan media, Asif highlighted that no significant conflict has erupted in recent days, suggesting that the Doha Agreement has had some influence. However, the Afghan government has yet to officially respond to this statement.
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Delegates from both countries have gathered in Turkey for a second round of talks. The core agenda of these discussions includes halting violence at the border, respecting each other's sovereignty, addressing Pakistan's security concerns over the past two decades, and lifting trade restrictions.
If Diplomacy Fails, Tensions Could Escalate
The discussions are also tackling the prevention of forced repatriation of Afghan refugees and keeping the refugee issue apolitical. Khawaja Asif emphasized that the border is currently stable but warned that failure in diplomatic efforts could quickly deteriorate the situation. He reminded that Pakistan has historically supported Afghanistan and provided refuge to millions of Afghan citizens.
Recently, however, Pakistan closed several Afghan refugee camps in Balochistan regions such as Loralai, Gardi Jungle, Saranan, Zhob, Killa Saifullah, Pishin, and Muslim Bagh, leaving thousands suddenly homeless.
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Pakistan's Demand to Halt 'Terror Attacks'
Border clashes erupted earlier this month when Pakistan demanded that the Taliban government stop terrorist attacks from their territory. In response, Pakistan conducted air strikes across the border, resulting in casualties on both sides due to crossfire.
Taliban officials have refuted these allegations, insisting that Afghan soil is not being used against any other country. They affirm that the 'Islamic Emirate' does not meddle in the internal affairs of other countries and is committed to peace in the region.
