Pakistan’s Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, has issued a grave warning that Islamabad will engage in an “open war” with Kabul should the ongoing second round of peace talks in Istanbul collapse, according to a report by TOLO News. The high-stakes meetings are aimed at resolving the escalating tensions and border disputes that recently led to weeks of deadly cross-border clashes and ceasefire violations.
The talks in Turkey, which follow an initial round in Doha, focus on implementing the previously agreed-upon Doha Agreement, halting cross-border attacks, and rebuilding fundamental trust between the two neighbouring nations.
Fragile Ceasefire and Core Issues
Speaking to reporters, Khawaja Asif, who led Pakistan’s delegation in the earlier Doha negotiations, noted a recent calm along the border. He suggested that the immediate ceasefire agreed upon by both sides in Doha on October 18-19, mediated by Qatar and Turkiye, had been “somewhat effective.” However, he cautioned that this period of peace is fragile and could quickly disintegrate if diplomatic efforts fail.
Afghan government officials have yet to issue a response to the Pakistani Defence Minister’s stark warning.
According to TOLO News, the dialogue in Istanbul is structured around four critical points intended to establish a lasting framework for peace:
- Creating a joint monitoring system to prevent future violence.
- Ensuring mutual respect for sovereignty.
- Addressing the roots of Pakistan’s security issues, specifically concerning militants allegedly operating from Afghan soil.
- Removing bilateral trade restrictions.
The negotiations also include a significant focus on humanitarian concerns, namely the discussion on stopping the forced deportation of Afghan refugees and ensuring the refugee issue is not politicized.
Humanitarian Crackdown Amid Diplomacy
Asif referenced Pakistan’s long history of supporting Afghanistan by hosting millions of migrants. This statement, however, follows reports earlier this week that Pakistani security forces shut down several long-standing Afghan refugee camps in Balochistan, including those in Loralai, Gardi Jungle, and Pishin. These actions led to the sudden displacement and demolition of homes and shops belonging to thousands of residents. Refugees affected by the closures claimed they were forced out abruptly without time to gather their belongings.
Background of Escalation
The recent spike in tensions was triggered after Islamabad demanded that the Afghan government curb militants, specifically the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), who allegedly launch attacks into Pakistan from inside Afghanistan. This dispute culminated in Pakistan launching airstrikes across the border, resulting in both countries exchanging heavy fire and dozens of casualties.
Meanwhile, Afghan officials have vehemently denied claims that their soil is being used to attack Pakistan, maintaining that the Islamic Emirate “does not interfere in the internal affairs of other countries” and is committed to regional peace and stability.
The outcome of the Istanbul talks is seen as critical for determining whether the two countries can establish a verifiable mechanism to secure the border or if the region faces a fresh round of large-scale military hostilities.