Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid, Afghanistan’s Minister of National Defense under the Islamic Emirate, stated in an exclusive interview with TOLOnews that the Afghan government has consistently sought to resolve differences with Pakistan through dialogue and mutual understanding, prioritizing the path of diplomacy.
Kabul 24: However, he accused Pakistan of failing to adhere to this principle.In strong and direct language, Mujahid warned that every act of aggression by Pakistan will be met with a reciprocal response from the Islamic Emirate. He declared: “If they make Kabul insecure, Islamabad will also become insecure.
If Kabul is attacked, Islamabad will be attacked. They should not think that they can martyr people in Kabul, destroy security here, and remain in peace in Islamabad.”Referring to the Durand Line, the minister emphasized that Pakistan is pushing to have this “imaginary line” officially recognized as an international border.
“This is a historical issue that neither the current government nor previous ones have resolved,” he said. “It should not be left unresolved in a way that fuels further tension.”Mujahid revealed that Saudi Arabia-mediated talks between the two sides had made some progress toward an agreement, but disagreements over key points prevented a final deal.He outlined Afghanistan’s policy toward Pakistan as resting on three core principles:Neither country’s territory should be used against the other.
Full respect for Afghanistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Separation of trade and economic matters from security issues.
The defense minister stressed: “Our soil is not being used against Pakistan, and we expect the same commitment from them. Disrespecting Afghanistan’s territorial integrity is never acceptable to Afghans and will not be tolerated.”Despite ongoing border clashes, accusations of cross-border militancy, and heightened tensions, Mujahid affirmed that the door to diplomacy remains open.
“If Pakistan comes forward sincerely to resolve the problems, Afghanistan is ready for talks,” he said. As a gesture of goodwill, he noted that the Islamic Emirate had previously released and handed over three captured Pakistani soldiers.
These remarks come amid a sharp deterioration in bilateral relations in recent months, driven by repeated cross-border military actions, mutual allegations of harboring armed groups, and the long-standing dispute over the Durand Line.
Mujahid underscored the Islamic Emirate’s full readiness to defend Afghan soil and national interests, signaling preparedness for any scenario—including prolonged confrontation.
