The Taliban government in Afghanistan has firmly rejected Pakistan’s accusation that it is fighting a “proxy war” on behalf of India, calling the claims baseless, illogical, and an attempt to divert attention from Pakistan’s internal problems.
Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif had earlier claimed that the Taliban were being “sponsored by Delhi” and were waging a proxy conflict against Pakistan. He expressed doubts about the ceasefire along the border, saying, “Right now, Kabul is fighting a proxy war for Delhi.”
Responding to the allegation, Afghanistan’s Defence Minister Mawlawi Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid dismissed the statement, calling it “unfounded and unacceptable.” He asserted that Afghanistan’s foreign policy is independent and guided only by its national interests.
“These accusations are baseless, illogical, and unacceptable. Our policy will never involve using our soil against another country. We maintain relations with India as an independent nation and will strengthen those ties within the framework of our national interests,” Yaqoob said.
The Taliban leader also emphasized that Afghanistan seeks peaceful and respectful relations with all neighboring countries, including Pakistan, and urged Islamabad not to undermine the peace process with such statements.
“We want good neighbourly relations and peace in the region. Such accusations only harm mutual trust,” he added.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s military and intelligence agencies remain wary of what they claim are militant elements operating from Afghan territory and launching attacks inside Pakistan. Tensions between the two countries have been rising due to cross border violence and the presence of Tehrik-I-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) fighters allegedly sheltered in Afghanistan.
India, on the other hand, rejected Pakistan’s claims as “baseless and habitual,” saying Pakistan often blames others to cover its internal failures. New Delhi reiterated its support for Afghanistan’s sovereignty and independence.
Regional Implications
Analysts say the Taliban’s statement marks a significant shift in regional power dynamics. Afghanistan is showing a willingness to engage openly with India on development and diplomatic fronts, while relations with Pakistan continue to deteriorate.
The fragile ceasefire along the Durand Line remains under strain, with both sides accusing each other of border violations. Observers note that the deep mistrust between Pakistan and the Taliban regime could further destabilize the region if dialogue efforts fail.
