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

Pakistan's information ministry has harshly criticized the Afghan Taliban for its continued refusal to tackle terrorism emanating from its territory. The rebuke followed remarks by Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid, who blamed Pakistan's "wrong policies" for the ongoing conflict and denied Kabul's role in counterterrorism issues.

The ministry accused the Taliban of "deeply misguided approach and unwillingness to confront the root cause of deteriorating relations with Pakistan". It emphasized that the "Taliban regime's persistent refusal to address terrorism remains the principal obstacle to normal relations". Pakistan reiterated its stance that terrorism is a non-negotiable red line and vowed not to tolerate terrorist sanctuaries on its borders.

Islamabad has repeatedly urged the Taliban to dismantle terrorist networks, particularly those linked to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which have been used for attacks in Pakistan. Despite several rounds of talks facilitated by Qatar, Turkey, and China, no significant progress has been made. The latest conflict between the two states erupted in September, with Pakistan conducting targeted airstrikes in response to terrorist attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, followed by drone incursions and retaliatory airstrikes.

The violence persisted into October, with unprovoked fire from Afghan forces along the border in Kurram and Lower South Waziristan's Angoor Adda, resulting in casualties.