Afghanistan’s Taliban authorities signaled Friday they are open to negotiations after Pakistan carried out airstrikes on major Afghan cities, marking the most serious confrontation yet between the former allies.
Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif described the situation as tantamount to an “open war,” according to Dawn. The Taliban said they launched retaliatory attacks following strikes on alleged militant hideouts last weekend but emphasized they preferred dialogue.
Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi told Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khalifi in a phone call that Kabul has “always preferred” resolving disputes through mutual understanding and respect. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid reiterated the group’s willingness to settle tensions through talks.
Regional powers moved quickly to prevent escalation. Iran offered to facilitate negotiations, while Saudi Arabia and Qatar intensified diplomatic engagement. Turkey also held discussions with key stakeholders.
China and Russia urged restraint and a return to dialogue. The United Kingdom voiced alarm over the escalation. The United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross called for an immediate halt to hostilities and protection of civilians as fears of broader instability grow.
