Taliban Accuses Pakistan of ‘Historical Amnesia’ amid Rising Border Tensions

DID Press: Following recent remarks by Pakistan’s defense minister hinting at a possible war with Afghanistan, a senior Taliban official has condemned the statement as “irresponsible” and reflective of “distrust and poor decision-making within Pakistan’s leadership.” Meanwhile, the latest round of talks between the two sides continues in Istanbul amid heightened tensions.

Mohammad Naeem Wardak, Deputy Minister of Finance and Administration at the Taliban’s Foreign Ministry, wrote on X that such comments stem from “a lack of awareness about the consequences of confrontation with the Afghan nation and disregard for historical realities — issues rooted in weak memory and political disunity in Islamabad’s leadership.”

Wardak’s remarks came in response to Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, who warned that a military conflict could erupt if negotiations between the two neighbors fail. Asif also accused the Taliban government of hostile behavior, alleged cooperation with India against Pakistan, and criticized the presence of Afghan migrants in the country.

At the same time, the second round of Taliban–Pakistan talks — mediated by Turkey and Qatar — is underway in Istanbul. The discussions reportedly focus on implementing the Doha understandings, mutual respect for territorial integrity, and preventing cross-border militant activity.

Analysts say the sharp tone from the Taliban official, combined with Pakistan’s warning, reflects deepening mistrust between the two neighbors — a rift rooted in border disputes, support for rival militant groups, and regional competition for influence.

Despite both sides expressing commitment to continued dialogue, observers warn that the climate of mutual suspicion and political pressures in Islamabad could make the talks increasingly fragile and raise the risk of limited border clashes.