In a significant escalation of diplomatic tensions, Afghanistan’s Acting Interior Minister, Sirajuddin Haqqani, has delivered a strong warning to Pakistan. He stated on Thursday that any act of aggression directed at Afghanistan would be a ‘big mistake’ with severe repercussions. Haqqani stressed that while internal issues exist, Afghans are united in repelling foreign invaders and that defending their territory is a top priority.
This warning follows a recent round of failed talks in Istanbul and comes after Pakistan’s Defence Minister issued a strong statement regarding the Afghan Taliban. Haqqani, while keeping the door open for dialogue, made it clear that aggression will not be tolerated. He referenced Afghanistan’s historical resilience against powerful global adversaries, suggesting that defending its own land is well within its capabilities.
The crux of the ongoing dispute centers on Pakistan’s demand for Afghanistan to crack down on the Tehreek-e-Taliban (TTP). Haqqani rejected this, characterizing it as an internal Pakistani problem that should be addressed domestically. He cautioned that attempting to export this issue to Afghanistan would only sow unrest and create further hostilities, ultimately leading to significant costs for Pakistan.
Haqqani, despite admitting to lacking advanced weaponry, emphasized the indomitable spirit and resolve of the Afghan people. He expressed confidence in their ability to overcome any challenge and secure victory. The minister’s message was unequivocal: aggression against Afghanistan would be a ‘big mistake’. Earlier, Afghanistan had threatened a robust response to any future Pakistani airstrikes following the collapse of negotiations over ‘unacceptable’ demands concerning armed groups.