Afghanistan: seeking talks with Pakistan to address tensions

Afghanistan: seeking talks with Pakistan to address tensions

Afghanistan Seeks Diplomatic Talks With Pakistan Amid Escalating Border Tensions

The intensifying conflict between Afghanistan and Pakistan has prompted calls for renewed diplomatic engagement to address mounting regional instability. Following cross-border airstrikes and retaliatory military operations, both nations face growing economic and humanitarian risks, with analysts warning of long-term consequences for trade, foreign investment, and regional stability.

According to reports, Pakistan's Defense Minister Khawaja Asif declared an "open war" with Afghanistan after Taliban forces launched retaliatory strikes against Pakistani military positions along the Durand Line, the disputed 2,611-kilometer border. Afghan officials confirmed airstrikes on Kabul, Kandahar, and Paktia provinces, while Pakistan claimed to have targeted militant sanctuaries. The clashes, which began on February 22, 2026, have disrupted a fragile Qatari-mediated ceasefire and reignited concerns over civilian casualties and infrastructure damage.

The economic fallout is already evident. Afghanistan's Defense Ministry reported significant destruction of military installations, while Pakistan's Information Minister cited the capture of Afghan fighters and the destruction of border posts. Cross-border fire near the Torkham refugee camp displaced thousands, with 13 civilians wounded in a missile strike. Such disruptions threaten Afghanistan's already strained economy, which relies heavily on cross-border trade with Pakistan and international aid.

International actors, including the United Nations and Iran, have urged de-escalation and dialogue. UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the need to protect civilians and resolve disputes diplomatically. Meanwhile, Russia has offered mediation, and Iran reiterated its support for "good neighbourly principles" to ease tensions according to reports.

Despite these efforts, both nations remain entrenched in their positions. Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of harboring the Taliban-linked Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), while Afghan officials deny the allegations and blame Islamabad for destabilizing cross-border strikes. With months of failed peace talks and sporadic violence, the path to resolution remains unclear.

For investors, the conflict underscores heightened risks in South Asia's volatile markets. Prolonged hostilities could further isolate Afghanistan economically, disrupt regional supply chains, and deter foreign capital. A return to sustained diplomacy will be critical to mitigating these impacts and restoring stability.