"Peace talks in Istanbul between Pakistan and Afghanistan's hard-line Islamist Taliban rulers have ended with no deal, but a cease-fire between the neighboring countries will continue. The Taliban's chief spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, blamed the collapse of the talks on the Pakistani delegation's "irresponsible attitude and lack of cooperation." Writing on X, Mujahid accused Islamabad of "showing no readiness to assume any responsibility for Afghanistan's security, or even for its own.""
"He added that the cease-fire "has not been violated by us so far, and it will continue to be observed." Multiple rounds of talks brokered by Turkey and Qatar have been held in Istanbul since last month. The latest talks were held on November 6-7 and were led by Abdul Haq Wasiq, the Taliban intelligence chief, and Lieutenant General Asim Malik, head of Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence."
"Earlier, Pakistani officials -- including Defense Minister Khawaja Asif -- also said the Istanbul talks failed, adding, "There are no plans for further negotiations." Asif warned that if Afghanistan's territory is used to attack Pakistan, the cease-fire will end. He had previously warned that failure to reach a deal could lead to "open war." At least five civilians, including four women, were killed there, and six others were wounded."
Peace talks in Istanbul between Pakistan and Afghanistan’s Taliban ended with no deal, while a cease-fire between the countries continues. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid blamed Pakistan’s delegation for an "irresponsible attitude and lack of cooperation," and said Islamabad showed no readiness to assume security responsibilities; he stated the cease-fire has not been violated by the Taliban and will continue. Multiple rounds brokered by Turkey and Qatar included talks on November 6–7 led by Abdul Haq Wasiq and LTG Asim Malik. Pakistani officials, including Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, said talks failed and warned the cease-fire would end if Afghan territory is used against Pakistan. Recent exchanges of fire in Spin Boldak caused civilian deaths and injuries.
Read at RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty
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