Kabul

Tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan are set to escalate following remarks by Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, about peace in Afghanistan.

During a UN Security Council meeting chaired by China, Dar emphasised the importance of stability in Afghanistan. In response, Afghanistan remained silent, but local experts quickly criticised his comments.

Zalmai Afghan Yar, an Afghan military analyst, called Dar's statements contradictory, stating, "Afghanistan seeks an economy based on cooperation, non-interference, and security for all, including Pakistan. If there are border disputes, they should be resolved through dialogue. Pakistan must abandon hypocrisy and respect mutual principles in its dealings with Afghanistan."

Afghan officials have repeatedly asserted that Afghanistan’s territory is not being used against any country. They argue that it is neighbouring countries, particularly Pakistan, that are using their land against Afghanistan. Sadiq Shinwari, an Afghan military affairs expert, demanded that Pakistan dismantle terrorist infrastructure within its borders and stop its "double standards" policy towards Afghanistan.

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At a recent UNSC meeting, Pakistan’s representative, Munir Akram, claimed Afghanistan had become a hub for recruiting Daesh Khorasan fighters. Afghanistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected these allegations, labelling them baseless. Zia Ahmad Takal, head of public relations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that the insecurity in Afghanistan originates from Pakistan, with perpetrators crossing from the Durand Line.

Afghan political analysts further argue that Daesh is operating from Pakistan against Afghanistan and other countries, with Wais Naseri, a political analyst, asserting, "Pakistan’s security policy has long involved using terrorist groups against its neighbours."