Pakistan’s foreign minister said relations with the Taliban have reached a critical low, citing continued cross-border attacks by the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) as the primary source of tension.
Ishaq Dar, who also serves as Pakistan’s deputy prime minister, made the remarks during a meeting with European diplomats in Islamabad, emphasizing that TTP assaults from Afghan territory have pushed bilateral relations to the brink of crisis.
“Afghanistan remains a key relationship for Pakistan and regional stability,” Dar said. “We want a peaceful, stable, friendly, connected and prosperous Afghanistan. We urge the Taliban regime to act responsibly, fulfill its commitments and work to eliminate terrorism originating from its soil.”
Dar further criticized the Taliban’s failure to meet Islamabad’s repeated requests over the past four years to rein in militant threats, particularly from the TTP.
In parallel, Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry said the Taliban bear responsibility for the prolonged closure of key border crossings, disruptions in bilateral trade, and stalled regional projects, including CASA-1000 and the TAPI gas pipeline.
“The Taliban’s support for anti-Pakistan elements has tested Islamabad’s patience,” said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Tahir Andrabi in a press briefing. “The border closures and trade suspensions are direct responses to security threats emanating from Afghan territory. Delays in reopening the border and in advancing regional projects are tied to the Taliban’s unwillingness to act against armed groups.”
Efforts to obtain comment from Taliban officials were unsuccessful at the time of publication.
Tensions have escalated sharply following an eight-day military clash between Pakistani forces and the Taliban and the collapse of talks held in Istanbul. Both sides now accuse each other of reneging on commitments and ignoring legitimate concerns.
As Taliban leaders strengthen engagement with India, U.S. media reports suggest Islamabad is exploring alliances with anti-Taliban factions and considering regime change strategies in Kabul.
Amid this deterioration, several regional powers — including Iran, Russia, China, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar — have begun diplomatic initiatives to reduce hostilities. Tehran is expected to host a regional summit next month aimed at easing tensions between Islamabad and the Taliban.
