Istanbul Talks Between Pakistan and Afghan Taliban Fail to Yield Assurances on Terror Proxies

Independent Report

Istanbul — Oct. 28

Pakistan has said that its four-day dialogue with the Afghan Taliban in Istanbul concluded without any binding assurances, despite Islamabad presenting credible evidence of terrorist networks operating from Afghan territory.

The talks, held at the request of Qatar and Türkiye, focused on a single-point agenda: urging the Afghan Taliban to prevent terrorist groups, including the Indian-abetted TTP and other proxies, from using Afghan soil as training, logistics, and launch bases for attacks inside Pakistan.

Over the course of the dialogue, Pakistan provided sufficient and irrefutable evidence, which was acknowledged by both the Afghan delegation and the host countries. However, the Taliban offered no commitments or guarantees. Islamabad said the Afghan side repeatedly diverted from the main issue, resorting to blame-shifting and deflection rather than addressing Pakistan’s concerns.

Pakistan expressed gratitude to Qatar and Türkiye for their efforts to facilitate a peaceful solution but emphasized that after years of tolerance and significant sacrifices, its patience has run out.

“The security of our people is paramount. Pakistan will continue to take all necessary measures to protect its citizens from terrorism,” the Pakistani delegation said, reaffirming its commitment to dismantling terrorist sanctuaries, networks, and support structures.

Since assuming power in Kabul, the Taliban have repeatedly been asked to act against groups such as TTP and other proxies targeting Pakistan. Pakistan maintains that these groups continue to enjoy sanctuary, support, or tacit tolerance, enabling ongoing cross-border terrorism.

Pakistan warned that it will continue to explore all diplomatic and operational measures to safeguard its people while calling on international partners to support a sustainable solution.