Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has warned that Pakistan could face an “open war” with Afghanistan if the ongoing peace negotiations fail. However, he also expressed optimism that both countries are sincerely working toward reconciliation.
The statement came as technical-level talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan continued in Istanbul over the weekend. The discussions aim to strengthen the fragile ceasefire that was brokered in Doha last week after one of the deadliest border clashes since the Taliban took control of Kabul in 2021.
Speaking to reporters in Sialkot, Khawaja Asif said, “If no agreement is reached, we have the option of open war with them. But I saw that they want peace.” He added that both sides had observed the ceasefire for several days without any major violations.
The recent wave of cross-border violence began when Pakistan demanded that the Taliban stop militants allegedly operating from Afghan territory. In response, Islamabad launched airstrikes, which led to heavy exchanges of fire, dozens of casualties, and the closure of key trade crossings.
The Istanbul negotiations are focused on creating a long-term mechanism to sustain the ceasefire and prevent further escalation. Analysts say one key point of discussion is intelligence-sharing about militant groups, including the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
“Pakistan would share coordinates of suspected TTP fighters, and Afghanistan would be expected to act instead of allowing strikes across the border,” said Ibraheem Bahiss, an International Crisis Group analyst.
Afghanistan’s delegation is being led by Deputy Interior Minister Haji Najib, while Pakistan has not revealed the members of its team. Islamabad continues to accuse Kabul of sheltering groups attacking Pakistani territory, while the Taliban denies these claims and accuses Pakistan of violating its sovereignty.
Khawaja Asif stressed that the outcome of the Istanbul talks will determine whether peace can be maintained or if the situation moves toward conflict. Meanwhile, border closures have caused severe economic losses, with Afghan traders reporting millions in daily damages.
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