PESHAWAR: A senior Pakistani security official has stated that the Afghan Taliban regime is well aware of Pakistan’s concerns and demands, but must take verifiable steps if it wants a ceasefire or dialogue. Relations between Pakistan and the Taliban have reached a low point in the four years since the group came to power in Kabul.
Pakistan recently conducted airstrikes against alleged terrorist camps in Afghanistan’s Nangarhar and Paktika provinces, leading to retaliatory attacks by the Taliban along the border. In response, Pakistan launched Operation Ghazab lil-Haq last week.
The official said the decision on whether to pursue dialogue or a ceasefire now lies with the Taliban. “If they want dialogue or a ceasefire, they must take verifiable steps,” the official stated, adding that Pakistan does not wish to attack anyone, with the country’s security being the top priority.
The Pak-Afghan border remains a point of contention, with the official noting that it is the only international border guarded solely by Pakistan, while the Taliban-controlled side provides shelter and facilitation to terrorist elements.
The escalating tensions between Pakistan and the Taliban-led government in Kabul pose significant challenges for regional stability, with both sides accusing the other of harboring militant groups. The Afghan Taliban’s willingness to address Pakistan’s concerns through concrete, verifiable actions will be crucial in determining the path forward.