Pakistan slams Afghan Taliban for 'shifting blame', 'persistent refusal' to address terrorism issues

The Pakistani government has harshly criticized the Afghan Taliban for its continued refusal to acknowledge terrorism as a major issue plaguing the relationship between the two nations. This rebuke follows remarks by Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid, who blamed Pakistan's "wrong policies" for hindering a resolution to the conflict. Mujahid claimed that Islamabad lacks the necessary readiness for a peaceful settlement.

In response, Pakistan's information ministry accused the Taliban of a "deeply misguided approach" and unwillingness to confront the core problem: its persistent failure to address terrorism originating from Afghan territory. The ministry emphasized that terrorism is a "red line" and stressed that the safety of its citizens is non-negotiable. It reiterated that the Taliban's refusal to address terrorism is the primary barrier to establishing normal relations between the two countries.

Mujahid's comments, according to the Pakistani information ministry, expose the "regime's misguided approach and unwillingness to truly resolve differences." The ministry urged Kabul to recognize that the responsibility for tackling these threats "lies squarely with the Afghan Taliban regime." Pakistan affirmed its right to take "all necessary measures, in accordance with international law, to eliminate threats to its national security, wherever they emerge."

The ministry urged the Taliban to understand that Pakistan's security will not be compromised by the Taliban's inaction or misplaced priorities.