Pakistan-Afghanistan Talks End Without Agreement

Peace talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan's Taliban government concluded without agreement in Istanbul on Friday, as delegations traded blame for the impasse over longstanding border security disputes. The two-day negotiations, mediated by Turkey and Qatar, marked the third round of discussions aimed at solidifying a fragile ceasefire and addressing cross-border terrorism, but ended in deadlock with no plans for immediate follow-up.

The failure came amid heightened tensions following deadly clashes along the shared border that began in early October. Officials from both sides described the atmosphere as unproductive, with Pakistan accusing the Taliban of refusing to commit in writing to curbing militant activities, while Afghan representatives criticized Islamabad's demands as unrealistic and uncooperative. "The irresponsible and noncooperative attitude of the Pakistani delegation resulted in no outcome," Taliban government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid wrote on social media, emphasizing Kabul's commitment to preventing its territory from being used against neighbors. Mujahid added that the ceasefire would hold, underscoring Afghanistan's resolve to defend its sovereignty.