Taliban Warns Pakistan Against Military Action in Afghanistan

Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid has cautioned Pakistan that any military actions in Afghanistan will provoke a response. He also urged Saudi Arabia to mediate in resolving issues between the Taliban and Pakistan.

Taliban to Pakistan: Any Military Operation in Afghanistan is Unacceptable

Zabihullah Mujahid, the spokesperson for the Taliban, issued a warning regarding any military actions by Pakistan on Afghan soil. He emphasized that if Pakistani forces enter or conduct military operations in Afghanistan, the Taliban will firmly defend its territory.

Mujahid stated, “Pakistan should not resort to military operations in Afghanistan to ensure its own security.” He also called on Saudi Arabia to play a mediating role in resolving disputes between the Taliban and Pakistan, highlighting the significance of the kingdom’s involvement in reducing tensions.

Taliban’s Relationships with Saudi Arabia and Past Mediations

In a discussion with Al Arabiya, Mujahid reiterated the Taliban government’s desire to strengthen relations with Saudi Arabia and welcomed the kingdom’s previous involvement in Afghanistan’s reconstruction and peace efforts. Historically, Saudi Arabia has acted as a mediator between the Taliban and Pakistan. For instance, on February 17 of last year, the Taliban, with the assistance of Saudi Arabia, released three Pakistani soldiers captured during border clashes.

Mutual Accusations and Taliban’s Stance

Mujahid also rejected all accusations from Pakistan regarding the presence of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) activities in Afghanistan, stating, “This group and other Baloch groups have been operating within Pakistan for years, and their issues should not be attributed to Afghanistan.”

He asserted that the Taliban will never permit TTP to use Afghan land for anti-Pakistani activities, reaffirming the Kabul government’s policy of not allowing its territory to be used to threaten any country. Pakistan has repeatedly accused the Taliban of harboring TTP members, claiming they use Afghan territory to plan attacks against Pakistan, a charge the Taliban consistently denies.

In contrast, Taliban officials have accused Pakistan of supporting ISIS operations in Afghanistan, further escalating tensions between the two sides.