Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has issued a stern warning that Islamabad could engage in "open war" with Afghanistan if ongoing peace negotiations in Istanbul fail to resolve escalating border tensions between the neighboring nations.
Speaking to reporters, Asif acknowledged that recent days had seen no fresh incidents along the disputed border, suggesting the Doha Agreement had been "somewhat effective" in maintaining a fragile calm. However, he cautioned that this stability could prove temporary if diplomatic efforts fail to address longstanding disputes. Afghan officials have not yet responded to his remarks.
The second round of peace talks currently underway in Istanbul focuses on four critical issues: establishing a joint border monitoring system, ensuring mutual respect for sovereignty, addressing Pakistan's security concerns, and lifting trade barriers. Discussions also cover halting forced deportation of Afghan refugees and preventing the refugee issue from becoming politicized.
The negotiations follow heightened tensions earlier this month when Pakistan demanded stronger Taliban action against militants allegedly launching attacks from Afghan territory. Islamabad responded with cross-border airstrikes, triggering heavy exchanges of fire that killed dozens on both sides.
Taliban officials rejected Pakistan's claims, insisting Afghan territory "is not being used to attack Pakistan" and affirming their commitment to non-interference in neighboring countries' internal affairs. Kabul maintains it remains dedicated to regional peace and stability.
Asif reminded reporters that Pakistan had supported Afghanistan "for decades" by sheltering millions of refugees. "We have stood by them through the hardest times," he stated, adding that Islamabad's patience was wearing thin following continued militant attacks.
Pakistan recently began demolishing refugee camps in Balochistan, displacing thousands of Afghans. Camps in Loralai, Gardi Jungle, Saranan, Zhob, Qala-e-Saifullah, Pishin, and Muslim Bagh were cleared, with residents reporting they were forced out abruptly without time to collect belongings.
The Istanbul talks follow initial negotiations held in Doha on October 18-19, jointly mediated by Qatar and Turkey, where both sides agreed to an "immediate ceasefire" after intense clashes. Qatar's Foreign Ministry stated the Istanbul discussions aim to ensure "the sustainability of the ceasefire and verify its implementation in a reliable and sustainable manner."
Despite recent calm, Pakistan's warning of potential "open war" has reignited concerns about escalation between the two neighbors, who share deep historical, ethnic, and economic ties but remain divided over border security, militancy, and refugee treatment.
The outcome of the Istanbul talks will likely determine whether the fragile ceasefire holds or if the region faces another round of hostilities between the two countries.
