Why it matters:
The breakdown in negotiations comes just days after deadly border clashes between the two countries, which left dozens dead, including civilians. Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of harboring militant groups responsible for cross-border attacks, while Kabul denies the claims and insists on its sovereignty.
The big picture:
Tensions escalated after a series of bombings in Kabul, which Afghan officials blamed on Pakistan. In response, Taliban forces carried out attacks on Pakistani border posts. Since then, the shared border has been closed, with only deported Afghan migrants allowed to cross.
What they're saying:
Pakistani Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said on X that the Afghan side “offered no guarantees, diverted from core issues, and resorted to blame-shifting.” He added that the talks “failed to produce any practical solution.” Tarar reiterated that Pakistan “will take all necessary steps to protect its people from terrorism” and vowed to eliminate “terrorists, their hideouts, and their supporters without exception.”
Over the weekend, Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif warned that a “full-scale war” could erupt if diplomatic efforts fail
Afghan officials have yet to issue a formal response, but local media have quoted Taliban representatives describing Pakistan’s demands as “unreasonable and unacceptable.” They emphasized that “dialogue remains the best path to resolving disputes.”
What to watch:
As diplomatic efforts falter and border tensions escalate, observers warn that a prolonged standoff could further destabilize the region. Both sides are under growing pressure to de-escalate and resume negotiations.
Go deeper:
Iran Offers to Mediate as Tensions Flare Between Afghanistan and Pakistan
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