Afghanistan Warns Pakistan: Peace Talks Fail, War Looms as Border Tensions Escalate

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As peace talks between Afghanistan and Pakistan in Istanbul collapsed, the Taliban government has signaled its readiness to defend itself in the face of a potential war. The failure of multiple rounds of negotiations has heightened tensions between the two South Asian neighbors, who have been embroiled in a series of deadly border clashes. Following the talks, Afghan government spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid stated that Afghanistan 'does not want insecurity in the region, and entering into war is not our first choice.' However, he emphasized, 'If war breaks out, we have the right to defend ourselves.' The breakdown in peace talks has been attributed to Pakistan's demands, which Afghanistan has deemed 'unreasonable.' Pakistan's defense minister, Khawaja Asif, had warned earlier that a war would be inevitable if talks failed. Asif reiterated his stance, stating that the ongoing ceasefire would only hold as long as there were no further violations from the Afghan side. Pakistan's information minister, Attaullah Tarar, acknowledged the deadlock but assured that the country values peace and stability. He, however, emphasized that Pakistan would take 'necessary measures' to protect its people. The failed peace talks have left the region on high alert, with both countries locked in a cycle of violence. The recent border clashes have resulted in the deaths of dozens of soldiers and civilians, highlighting the urgent need for a resolution to the conflict. Despite efforts by Turkey and Qatar to broker a ceasefire, the situation remains precarious. As tensions continue to escalate, the international community is watching with growing concern, awaiting a resolution to the crisis that has plagued the region for months.