The third day of peace talks between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban in Istanbul ended without progress. According to Reuters, sources within Pakistan’s security services accused the Taliban delegation of “obstructionism” and a “lack of cooperation”, Afintl.af reports.
A Pakistani security official stated that Islamabad will not make concessions on key issues related to cross-border terrorism.
“The Pakistani delegation made it clear that no compromise is possible on our core demands,” the source emphasized.
The meetings, mediated by Turkey, aim to achieve a long-term ceasefire. However, according to Reuters, both sides continue to interpret the goals and outcomes of the negotiations differently.
Pakistani officials earlier described the Taliban delegation’s arguments as “illogical” and “detached from reality.” Sources within Pakistan’s security establishment claim that the Taliban are deliberately slowing down the process.
In response, a Taliban representative participating in the talks rejected the accusations, saying the discussions were “generally going well and being held in a friendly atmosphere.”
Taliban chief spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid also confirmed that the movement remains committed to dialogue and believes disputes “must be resolved through negotiations.”
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif warned last week that if the Istanbul talks collapse, the situation could escalate into “open war.”
Tensions have further intensified following Pakistani airstrikes on Afghanistan’s Kabul and Paktia provinces, which Islamabad said targeted the leadership of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). In retaliation, Taliban forces reportedly attacked Pakistani border outposts, sparking heavy clashes that ultimately led to a ceasefire agreement on October 19.
Pakistan has repeatedly accused the Afghan Taliban of providing safe havens to TTP militants who conduct cross-border attacks — allegations Kabul firmly denies.
According to Pakistani military officials, recent border clashes left five Pakistani soldiers and 25 TTP militants dead.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump, speaking at a regional summit in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday, expressed his readiness to act as a mediator.
“I will achieve a swift resolution to the war between Pakistan and the Taliban,” Trump declared.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
October 27, 2025