Pakistan insists on verifiable action against TTP and cross-border terrorism.
The ongoing peace negotiations between Pakistan and Afghanistan in Istanbul have come to a standstill, as both sides failed to find common ground on Islamabad’s key demand — a clear, verifiable plan to dismantle terrorist networks operating from Afghan territory.
According to diplomatic sources, the latest round of talks, held under the mediation of Türkiye and Qatar, ended late Monday without progress. Despite extended discussions, the Afghan Taliban delegation declined to issue written guarantees on counterterrorism measures demanded by Pakistan.
Islamabad Stands Firm on Counterterrorism Conditions
Pakistan has refused to ease its stance, asserting that cooperation with Kabul will only move forward once concrete and irreversible steps are taken against the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Baloch militant groups, and other organisations involved in cross-border attacks.
Sources close to the Pakistani delegation said the message from Islamabad remained clear and uncompromising — “no progress on peace without action against terrorism.”
“Pakistan’s proposals are rational and grounded in security realities,” a security official stated. “The Afghan side must ensure verifiable dismantling of the TTP network and guarantee that its territory will not be used for hostile operations.”
Internal Divisions Within Afghan Delegation
While some members of the Afghan delegation reportedly expressed willingness to consider Pakistan’s proposals, insiders revealed that the group lacked the authority to take binding decisions. The final word, they said, rests with Kabul and Kandahar, which have yet to issue formal approval.
“It appears that the Afghan team understands the logic behind Pakistan’s demands,” an official involved in the discussions noted. “However, their hands are tied — instructions from Kabul seem to be preventing any meaningful progress.”
Sources further claimed that certain elements within the Afghan administration are pursuing “another agenda,” making the mediation process increasingly difficult.
Tensions Heighten Amid Border Infiltration Attempts
The stalled dialogue coincides with a surge in cross-border infiltration attempts. Over the weekend, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed that Pakistani forces had foiled two infiltration bids by Fitna al-Khawarij militants from Afghan territory.
“The timing of these infiltration attempts — while negotiations are underway — raises serious questions about Kabul’s intentions,” the ISPR remarked in a statement.
Islamabad continues to press Kabul to honour its commitments under the Doha Agreement, ensuring Afghan soil is not used for attacks against Pakistan.
Türkiye, Qatar Push for Resolution
Turkish and Qatari mediators are reportedly working tirelessly to prevent a total collapse of the dialogue. Both host countries have conveyed to the Afghan side that Pakistan’s demands are legitimate and in the broader interest of regional peace.
“The mediators have urged the Afghan delegation to adopt a pragmatic approach,” a security source said. “They agree that meeting Pakistan’s security concerns would pave the way for stable relations.” Despite continued diplomatic engagement, officials admit that a breakthrough appears unlikely unless the Afghan leadership issues direct orders to dismantle terror networks and prevent militant movements across the border.