Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi expressed the Taliban’s position on the escalating tensions with Pakistan, emphasizing that diplomatic channels should be prioritized over military confrontations. Speaking at an event in Russia, Muttaqi criticized Pakistan’s powerful military for relying solely on military language in its dealings with Afghanistan, which he claimed results in violations of international law.
According to Muttaqi, Pakistan has turned transit routes, refugees, and students into tools of pressure, exacerbating the strained relationship between the two nations. He also noted the presence of thousands of armed personnel gathering near the Afghan border, which he described as a challenge to stability.
“Afghanistan neither wants problems with Pakistan to become a field of mutual accusations and propaganda, nor seeks new means of prolonging it,” he stated. However, he asserted that Afghanistan reserves the right to self-defense against any acts of aggression.
The rapid deterioration of relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan has been marked by accusations of militancy. Islamabad has accused Kabul of harboring militants responsible for cross-border attacks, a claim the Taliban government denies, asserting that militancy is an internal issue for Pakistan.
As of now, Pakistan’s foreign ministry and military, along with the Prime Minister’s Office, have not responded to requests for comment regarding these assertions or the ongoing tensions.
The relationship between the two neighbors continues to be fraught, highlighting the need for diplomatic engagement amidst rising military tensions.
