Taliban’s Defense Minister Says Group Is Not Initiating War with Pakistan
In the wake of rising tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, Mohammad Yaqub Mujahid, the Defense Minister of the Taliban administration, stated that the Taliban are not the initiators of war with Pakistan and do not seek to escalate conflicts. He emphasized that Kabul prefers to resolve differences through dialogue and political understanding.
In an interview with a local media outlet, Mr. Mujahid addressed the citizens, religious scholars, and politicians of Pakistan, affirming that the Afghan people do not desire war with their neighbor. According to him, military conflict would benefit neither side, and diplomatic channels should be used to ease tensions.
In part of his remarks, the Taliban Defense Minister accused the Pakistani military of attempting to establish a weak regime in Afghanistan—one lacking independent military capability and dependent on Islamabad for foreign policy and economic matters. He stressed that such an approach is unacceptable for Afghanistan.
These statements come amid ongoing political and security tensions between the two countries in recent months. However, the Taliban administration has yet to provide clear details on practical measures to reduce tensions and ensure lasting stability along the borders, raising concerns among border-area residents.
Mr. Mujahid also called on Afghan citizens to maintain unity and solidarity and not to allow individuals seeking to exploit insecurity to take advantage of the current situation. He urged that increased pressures should strengthen internal cohesion.
In conclusion, the Taliban Defense Minister addressed regional and global countries, affirming that the administration believes in diplomatic solutions and does not desire war but will defend Afghanistan in the event of any attack.
