Kabul’s influence on talks, says defence minister
Pakistan’s Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, told a televised interview that decisions during recent talks were dominated by Kabul. He said it became clear on day one that the Afghan negotiating team lacked independent authority. Consequently, positions shifted repeatedly, he added.
Speaking on Geo News’s programme Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Saath, Asif said agreements unraveled after fresh contacts with officials in Kabul. He said this pattern occurred several times during the process. He praised the Afghan delegation’s hard work, however, he insisted that the ultimate control lay elsewhere.
Allegations of Indian influence
Furthermore, Asif suggested that India exerted influence behind the scenes. He said those pulling the strings from Kabul bore the imprint of “Delhi”. He argued that Islamabad perceived these actions as a form of retaliation against Pakistan.
Asif warned sharply that Islamabad would respond firmly to any hostile moves. If anyone raises an eye towards Islamabad, we will remove that eye, he said. His remarks framed India’s alleged role as a proxy effort against Pakistan. He also called for legal action against past supporters of the Taliban, regardless of their location.
Trust concerns and Taliban’s control
Asif noted that the Taliban do not control all of Afghanistan. Therefore, he said, assurances given through a single faction were insufficient for trust. He argued that confidence-building required clear and accountable authority on the Afghan side.
He also emphasised that Pakistani negotiations remained transparent. He said provincial interests were protected throughout. Moreover, he reiterated that Pakistan would not negotiate with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, or TTP.
Provincial autonomy and respect
Asif urged respect for the elected government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He said provincial authority should be recognised in decisions affecting the region. He added that Islamabad would uphold provincial prerogatives during any talks.
On potential military role in Gaza
Separately, Asif addressed reports about sending troops to Gaza. He said Pakistan would consider a role only if it could protect Palestinian civilians. However, he added that any decision would involve Parliament and relevant institutions. Thus, Islamabad would seek democratic and institutional backing before acting.
