Pakistan–Afghanistan Border Tension Tests Peace Talks in Istanbul
Key Points
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Pakistan calls demands “non-negotiable” as third peace round begins in Istanbul
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Taliban instructed to make only realistic commitments
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Border firing at Chaman-Spin Boldak kills two civilians, raising tensions
Talks Resume Amid Border Fire
The third round of Pakistan-Afghanistan talks began in Istanbul on Thursday, despite a brief border clash that tested an already fragile ceasefire.
The discussions, hosted by Turkiye and Qatar, aim to finalize a monitoring and verification system agreed earlier, and address militant sanctuary concerns inside Afghanistan.
Top Officials Lead Negotiations
Pakistan’s team, led by ISI Director General Lt Gen Asim Malik, includes senior military, intelligence, and diplomatic officials.
The Afghan delegation is led by GDI chief Abdul Haq Waseq with key Taliban members, including Suhail Shaheen and Anas Haqqani.
Pakistan’s Firm Position
A senior Pakistani official stated that Islamabad’s demands are “non-negotiable”.
Pakistan seeks:
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A neutral verification mechanism
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Action against TTP militants inside Afghanistan
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Handover of TTP leaders sheltering in Afghanistan
The official alleged the Taliban are relocating TTP fighters into cities to frame Pakistan’s defensive actions as civilian harm.
Taliban’s Response
According to Afghan sources, Taliban chief Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada instructed negotiators to accept only practical and achievable commitments, and not surrender to Pakistan’s demands.
Border Clash Raises Concern
The talks were overshadowed by firing at the Chaman-Spin Boldak border crossing.
At least two Pakistani civilians, including a woman, were killed. Both sides blamed each other for the incident.
Pakistan said Afghan forces initiated the firing, while the Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid accused Pakistan of violating the truce.
Despite the clash, authorities confirmed the ceasefire remains in place.
Outlook
Expectations remain low due to deep mistrust and slow progress in earlier rounds. However, both sides continue engaging in direct and indirect talks, hoping to avoid further escalation.
