Turkey Mediation Fails as Pakistan-Afghanistan Peace Talks Stalemate

Peace talks hosted by Turkey between Pakistan and Afghanistan have reached a stalemate after three days of negotiations in Istanbul. Both countries’ state media reported on Tuesday that they are blaming each other for the inability to reach an agreement, even as Turkish officials continue their efforts to resolve the deadlock.

These talks are part of a broader diplomatic initiative aimed at alleviating escalating tensions between Islamabad and Kabul, primarily stemming from issues related to cross-border attacks and the presence of militant safe havens. Relations have been strained since the Taliban regained power in Afghanistan four years ago. Although delegations from both nations remain in Turkey, it remains uncertain whether discussions will extend into a fourth day.

On Tuesday morning, Pakistan Television reported that Turkish officials, alongside representatives from other nations, are striving to uphold a ceasefire that was agreed upon on October 19, 2023, in Doha. This agreement followed a series of deadly clashes resulting in the deaths of dozens of soldiers, militants, and civilians from both sides.

According to three Pakistani security officials who spoke to the Associated Press, the talks have stalled due to the Afghan delegation’s hesitance to accept what they view as logical and legitimate demands from Pakistan—specifically, assurances that Afghan territory will not be used for hostile actions against Pakistan. These officials requested anonymity as they were not authorized to address the media.

Sources indicated that the Taliban delegation has shown reluctance to fully embrace Pakistan’s proposals and continues to seek guidance from Kabul before making critical decisions. There has been no immediate response from Afghan authorities regarding these claims.

Afghanistan’s state media, RTA, countered the narrative by asserting that Kabul has made every effort to engage in constructive discussions, while accusing the Pakistani side of lacking a similar intention.

As the talks in Turkey unfolded, U.S. President Donald Trump pledged on Sunday to assist in swiftly resolving the ongoing crisis between the two neighboring countries. The recent hostilities prompted Qatar to facilitate the initial round of talks, which resulted in a ceasefire that both parties claim is still in effect, despite the current impasse in Istanbul.

No official statements regarding the status of the negotiations have been issued by either side. Islamabad-based security analyst Syed Mohammad Ali commented that Afghanistan’s approach appears to be aimed at prolonging the diplomatic process and diverting attention to other bilateral issues. He highlighted Afghanistan’s unwillingness to provide a clear, verifiable commitment to act against the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other militants based in Afghanistan.

Pakistan has experienced a rise in militant attacks in recent years, largely attributed to the TTP, which is closely aligned with the Taliban. Islamabad claims that the TTP is receiving sanctuary in Afghanistan following the Taliban’s takeover in 2021. In light of this, Pakistani military operations earlier this month targeted TTP hideouts within Afghanistan, leading to intense clashes until Qatar brokered the ceasefire.

Currently, all border crossings between Pakistan and Afghanistan remain closed, leaving numerous trucks carrying goods stranded and awaiting the reopening of vital trade routes. The ongoing diplomatic efforts in Turkey are crucial, as both nations seek to stabilize their relationship and address the underlying issues that have fueled violence and unrest in the region.