Afghanistan says Pak breaches truce, fires on its forces as 3rd round of talks begin
Pakistani forces opened fire on Afghan border positions on Thursday even as the third round of high-stakes talks between the two countries began in Istanbul, Afghan media reported. The incident has cast a shadow over the ongoing negotiations aimed at reinforcing a fragile ceasefire and preventing further escalation along the volatile frontier.
Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, said the firing occurred in the Spin Boldak area and caused concern among local residents.
“While the third round of talks with Pakistan has begun in Istanbul, it is with regret that I must say that this afternoon, once again, firing was initiated by Pakistani forces on the Spin Boldak area,” Mujahid said. He added that Afghan forces had not yet responded “out of respect for the negotiating team and to avoid civilian casualties,” noting that the two sides had earlier agreed on extending the ceasefire and maintaining non-aggression.
The renewed hostilities came just hours after Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif warned that failure of the Istanbul talks could lead to war. Speaking to reporters before the negotiations resumed, Asif said, “If the negotiations fail, the situation will deteriorate further. We have our options. Considering how we are being targeted, we may respond in the same manner.” When asked if that meant war, he replied, “Yes — only war.”
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