SLAMABAD(The COW News Digital) Federal Information Minister Attaullah (Ata) Tarar on Thursday blamed the collapse of recent negotiations on the Afghan Taliban and warned that Pakistan retains overwhelming conventional military superiority should hostilities escalate. Tarar described the failed talks as evidence that Kabul has not been willing to rein in militants operating against Pakistan from Afghan soil.
Speaking on Geo News’ programme Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Saath, Tarar said Pakistan had engaged in diplomacy “in the spirit of peace,” but accused Afghan authorities of continuing to permit anti-Pakistan groups to operate with impunity. He called any written assurances that do not translate into action “hypocritical,” arguing they amount to tacit support for militants.
Tarar warned bluntly that Pakistan is prepared to defend itself. “If Afghanistan’s soil is used to attack us, we will respond decisively,” he said, stressing Islamabad’s right to self-defence and promising that the country would prevail in any conventional fight. He asserted that Pakistan has already outmatched larger foes in past conventional contests and would do so again if required.
While insisting that Pakistan still prefers a diplomatic solution, the minister said tactical decisions — including temporary border closures and heightened military readiness — are being taken to protect citizens and prevent further cross-border violence. Tarar indicated a final decision on the Pakistan-Afghanistan frontier would be taken within days, and that current restrictions on movement and trade could remain in place until concrete guarantees are obtained.
Analysts say Tarar’s remarks signal Tehran’s (sic) — and Islamabad’s — impatience after rounds of mediation in Turkey and other venues failed to secure firm commitments from Kabul to control militant groups. Regional observers caution that inflammatory rhetoric and military posturing risk further escalation unless back-channel diplomacy and third-party guarantees can restore confidence.
Diplomatic sources confirm Pakistan briefed partners on the talks’ outcome and urged international pressure on Kabul to act against armed groups accused of carrying out cross-border attacks. For now, Islamabad emphasises that while diplomacy remains the preferred route, it will not hesitate to use force to protect its sovereignty and citizens if provocations continue.
