Peace talks between Afghanistan and Pakistan have collapsed after two days of negotiations in Istanbul, despite both sides agreeing to uphold a fragile ceasefire, according to statements from the Taliban and Pakistani officials.
The talks, mediated by Turkey and Qatar, marked the third round of high-level dialogue since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 2021. However, the discussions ended without agreement, with both nations blaming each other for the breakdown.
“The talks are over,” said Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, adding that the ceasefire would continue “as long as it is not violated from the Afghan side” The Indian Express.
Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said the negotiations failed because Islamabad demanded Kabul take responsibility for Pakistan’s internal security, a condition he described as beyond Afghanistan’s capacity The Business Standard.
Despite the collapse, Mujahid emphasized that “the ceasefire that has been established has not been violated by us so far, and it will continue to be observed.”
The talks followed deadly border clashes last month that killed dozens, marking the worst violence between the two countries in years. Analysts warn that without a political breakthrough, the ceasefire remains vulnerable to further escalation.
