Islamabad, Sept. 16: Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have hit a new low, with Islamabad accusing the Taliban administration of failing to curb cross-border militant attacks by the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), according to Khaama Press citing Dawn News.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently urged Kabul to “choose between Pakistan and the TTP,” warning Islamabad would not tolerate further strikes launched from Afghan soil. His comments followed Afghan accusations that Pakistani airstrikes in Nangarhar and Khost killed civilians — claims Pakistan denied, insisting the operations targeted militant hideouts.
Since the Taliban’s return in 2021, Pakistan has faced a surge in TTP-linked violence. In response, it has carried out cross-border airstrikes, tightened Afghan transit trade rules, and deported over 1.2 million undocumented Afghan nationals.
Officials in Islamabad have signaled that if attacks persist, Pakistan may expand aerial operations deeper into Afghan territory — a move analysts warn could heighten regional tensions.
Observers describe the situation as a “new low” in bilateral relations, with trade and diplomacy overshadowed by growing mistrust and fears of escalation.