Afghanistan’s Taliban government expressed hope that escalating tensions with Pakistan can be resolved through diplomatic dialogue, while also accusing Islamabad of aggressive behavior along their shared border. Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi made the remarks on Monday during an event in Russia, amid rising military and political frictions between the two neighboring countries.

Muttaqi criticized Pakistan’s military for what he described as an unwillingness to pursue political understanding, alleging that it relies instead on coercive tactics and violations of international law. He accused Pakistan of using transit controls, the status of refugees, and restrictions on Afghan students as tools to exert pressure on Afghanistan. Additionally, he claimed that Islamabad has amassed thousands of troops along the border, actions he said undermine regional stability.

The Afghan minister emphasized that his government does not wish for bilateral issues to devolve into mutual accusations or propaganda battles, nor does it seek to prolong existing tensions. However, he affirmed Afghanistan’s right to self-defense in the event of any aggression.

Relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan have deteriorated over allegations from Islamabad accusing Kabul of harboring armed groups that launch cross-border attacks. The Taliban government has dismissed these claims, stating that such armed factions are Pakistan’s internal problem. Despite repeated requests, officials from Pakistan’s foreign ministry, military, and Prime Minister’s Office did not offer an immediate response to the recent comments.

The situation reflects long-standing complexities in Afghanistan-Pakistan relations, which have been complicated by security concerns, border disputes, and differing political approaches. The call for dialogue from Kabul comes as both sides navigate a period marked by heightened military presence and mutual distrust along their frontier.