Istanbul Talks Fail: War Returns to Durand Line

Kokcha News Agency – Russian sources confirm that talks mediated by Qatar and Turkey between the Taliban-led government in Kabul and Pakistani delegates have ended without any formal agreement or resolution. The Pakistani delegation has left Istanbul, and diplomatic sources indicate that all border crossings along the Durand Line will be closed starting tomorrow.

Pakistan’s Defense Minister stated that Islamabad will not initiate hostilities but will respond if “provoked by the Taliban.” The Taliban have publicly echoed a similar stance. However, analysts warn that fresh clashes are now inevitable given the fragile and escalating situation.

It is critical to emphasize: this is not a war between Pakistan and the Afghan people, but a confrontation between Pakistan and the Taliban—a terrorist group that once rose to power with Islamabad’s support and is now being used as a proxy in a complex geopolitical struggle. The Taliban have never represented the Afghan people; they have long served the interests of Pakistan and its foreign backers. Today, the same patrons are turning against their former proxies, while ordinary Afghans remain helpless spectators.