Afghanistan’s Acting Interior Minister, Sirajuddin Haqqani, has issued a potent warning to Pakistan, declaring any military aggression against Kabul a ‘big mistake’. Haqqani stated unequivocally that the Afghan people, despite any internal matters, stand united against foreign aggression, with territorial defense being a primary focus. This strong stance emerged just days after diplomatic talks in Istanbul concluded without progress.
The minister’s remarks also appeared to be a direct riposte to Pakistan’s Defence Minister, who had reportedly warned the Afghan Taliban of severe consequences if they tested Islamabad’s resolve. Haqqani, while advocating for continued dialogue, firmly asserted that Afghanistan would resist any hostile actions. He invoked Afghanistan’s history of confronting global powers, highlighting their capacity to defend their own soil.
A key point of contention remains Pakistan’s insistence that Afghanistan dismantle and prevent operations of the Tehreek-e-Taliban (TTP). Haqqani dismissed these demands as Pakistan’s internal affairs, urging them to resolve the issue domestically. He cautioned that any attempt to impose this problem onto Afghanistan would inevitably lead to unrest and further conflict, a miscalculation that would come at a very high price.
While acknowledging Afghanistan’s comparative lack of advanced military technology, Haqqani emphasized the strength of their resolve and determination. He conveyed confidence in their ability to overcome any circumstances and achieve victory. The high-ranking Taliban official concluded by reinforcing that any act of aggression impacting Afghanistan would be deemed a ‘big mistake’. Afghanistan had previously warned of retaliation against any Pakistani airstrikes on its territory following the breakdown of talks over contentious demands.