Taliban Foreign Minister Warns Pakistan: "Peace Preferred, But Afghanistan Has Other Means"

'Our people and the government will unite and defend the country,' Muttaqi said. (File)

Afghanistan's Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi stated on Sunday that while his country prefers peaceful resolution of the ongoing conflict with Pakistan, they have "other means" if diplomatic efforts fail. Speaking during his six-day visit to India, Muttaqi emphasized Afghanistan's unity in confronting any external threats.

Following a Pakistani air strike in Kabul on Thursday, renewed fighting erupted between the two neighboring countries. Muttaqi assured that the situation remains under control, affirming Afghanistan will not accept any violations of its sovereignty.

In response to Pakistan's action, Afghan forces launched counterattacks on Pakistani military posts along their shared border on Saturday night, raising concerns about potential escalation. A Taliban spokesperson in Kabul reported that Afghan forces had captured several Pakistani border positions and killed 58 Pakistani soldiers during the confrontation.

"The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan's policy is to resolve all issues through discussion and understanding. We desire zero tension, but if they reject this approach, Afghanistan possesses other means," Muttaqi declared from New Delhi, sending a clear message to Pakistan.

The Afghan Foreign Minister clarified that Afghanistan harbors no grievances against Pakistani citizens or politicians but suggested that certain elements within Pakistan are attempting to "spoil" relations. Pakistan has repeatedly accused the Taliban government of sheltering Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants, holding them responsible for numerous attacks inside Pakistan.

Kabul has consistently denied these allegations. "We have no difficulties with Pakistani people and politicians. There are specific elements in Pakistan trying to deteriorate the situation," Muttaqi explained.

"Afghanistan will safeguard the security of its territory and airspace. When violations occurred, we responded immediately. Our nighttime retaliatory operations achieved their objectives," he stated.

Muttaqi emphasized Afghanistan's defensive capabilities while reiterating Kabul's preference for peaceful resolution through dialogue. "If some parties refuse to resolve this situation, Afghanistan has the capacity to protect its territory and airspace. Afghanistan's people and forces stand united in defense of our country."

"Afghanistan possesses another remarkable characteristic: despite any internal differences, when faced with external interference, all Afghan people, government officials, and religious leaders unite to confront and defend our nation," he continued.

"Looking ahead, our people and government will remain united in defense of our country," Muttaqi affirmed.

The Foreign Minister mentioned that several friendly nations, including Qatar and Saudi Arabia, had contacted Kabul urging cessation of hostilities. "From our side, we have halted fighting, and the situation is under control. We desire good relations and our doors remain open for talks. We established peace in Afghanistan and wish for peace throughout the region."

Muttaqi also referenced Afghanistan's historical resilience against foreign powers. "Our policy is to maintain good relations with all countries. Afghanistan experienced over 40 years of conflict. The Soviet Union invaded and was defeated."

"Forces from more than 50 countries accompanied the US and NATO, fighting continued for 20 years, and now Afghanistan stands independent and self-reliant," he stated.

"Afghanistan has experienced no major incidents for four years. From east to west and north to south, people stand united with the Islamic Emirate," Muttaqi said.

He concluded by reiterating: "The Islamic Emirate's policy is to resolve all problems through discussion and understanding."