By The Taliban’s support for India’s sovereignty over Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) has sparked a strong reaction from Pakistan, further straining its already tense relations with Afghanistan.
The issue surfaced following a joint statement issued after External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s meeting with Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, in which both nations affirmed each other’s territorial integrity.
Taliban Backs India on J&K
In the joint statement, Afghanistan recognized Jammu & Kashmir as part of India, a move Pakistan termed a “clear violation” of international norms.
Pakistan has officially protested to Afghanistan, claiming that the reference contradicts UNSC resolutions and undermines the legal status of J&K.
From India’s perspective, the statement highlights that India and Afghanistan are contiguous neighbors, given that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) shares a 106-km border with Afghanistan.
Jaishankar emphasized that as a neighbor and well-wisher, India has a deep interest in Afghanistan’s development and stability.
Islamabad Lodges Formal Protest
Pakistan summoned the Afghanistan ambassador in Islamabad, describing the joint statement as “highly insensitive”.
President Asif Ali Zardari criticized the Taliban for ignoring the Kashmiri people and betraying historical and religious considerations.
The diplomatic row comes amid recent clashes along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, which have intensified tensions.
Muttaqi Warns Pakistan, Signals Options
At a press conference in the Afghan embassy, Amir Khan Muttaqi accused “certain elements” in Pakistan of provoking conflict.
He warned that if Pakistan refuses to pursue peace, Afghanistan has alternative measures to protect its sovereignty and borders.
Muttaqi clarified that the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) no longer operates from Afghan soil, emphasizing that most Pakistanis are peace-loving and desire good relations with Afghanistan.
“Afghanistan will safeguard its borders and national interests,” said Muttaqi.
“Our military response achieved objectives, and with support from Qatar and Saudi Arabia, we have paused further escalation. We want peace, but if Pakistan resists, Afghanistan has other options.”
Afghanistan Challenges Pakistan on Border Security
Responding to Pakistan’s claims that the Taliban shelter TTP militants, Muttaqi said the 2,400-km border is impossible to fully control, noting:
“Neither Genghis Khan nor the British could control it. Strength alone is insufficient. Pakistan has a larger army and better intelligence—why can’t they manage their own territory?”
He added that the ongoing conflict is internal to Pakistan, urging Islamabad to address its internal security issues instead of blaming Afghanistan.
