Pakistan has delivered a strong ultimatum to the Afghan Taliban, warning that continued inaction against anti-Pakistan militant groups could trigger severe consequences for the Kabul administration. The message comes as cross-border attacks intensify, prompting Islamabad to harden its stance after months of stalled diplomatic engagement.
According to senior security officials, Pakistan believes that the Afghan Taliban have failed to curb the activities of the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other factions using Afghan soil for operations against Pakistani forces. Islamabad has repeatedly shared intelligence on militant hideouts but claims that the Taliban have not taken “verifiable and results-oriented measures” to dismantle them.
Government sources indicate that Pakistan is now considering stronger responses if attacks continue, including actions that could directly challenge the Taliban’s political hold in Kabul. While officials did not specify the nature of these steps, the warning reflects a notable escalation in rhetoric and strategy.
Despite the tough messaging, Pakistan maintains that it prefers a diplomatic path. Islamabad has expressed readiness for further talks – but only if the Taliban demonstrate genuine progress in restricting militant movements near the border and preventing infiltration into Pakistan.
Tensions along the frontier have already increased, with troop reinforcements deployed on both sides and intermittent firing incidents reported in recent weeks. Analysts warn that a prolonged standoff could destabilize an already fragile region, especially as both nations struggle with internal economic and security pressures.
The ultimatum marks a critical moment in Pakistan-Afghanistan relations, raising questions about whether the Taliban leadership will reassess its approach or risk further confrontation with its most influential neighbour.
