Afghanistan to take ‘clear, verifiable action’ against terrorists: sources

ISLAMABAD: The Afghan Taliban have committed to taking “clear, verifiable, and effective action” against terrorist groups operating from Afghan soil, including the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), Pakistani sources told Pakistan TV Digital.

The announcement follows a five-day negotiation in Istanbul, where both sides agreed to extend the ceasefire.

Official sources described the development as a key step toward regional peace and stability and an important milestone for international security.

While the ceasefire will continue, Pakistani officials stressed that it is conditional on Afghanistan not being used as a launchpad for attacks against Pakistan.

“This outcome has been achieved through reasoned diplomacy, patience, and steadfast commitment to national interest, despite hurdles and accusations from adversaries,” sources said.

Afghanistan and Pakistan reaffirmed their commitment to the ceasefire during talks mediated by Türkiye and Qatar, according to a joint statement released by the Turkish Foreign Ministry. The talks aimed to consolidate the truce originally agreed upon in Doha on October 18–19, 2025, with a principal-level meeting scheduled for November 6 to finalize further implementation details.

 The Qatar foreign ministry also confirmed the development in a post later on X.

The statement also confirmed that a joint monitoring and verification mechanism will be established to ensure compliance and impose penalties on violators. Türkiye and Qatar, as mediators, praised the active participation of both sides and reaffirmed their readiness to continue supporting efforts for lasting peace and stability.

Reaffirming the agreement, Afghanistan’s interim government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said the talks concluded with an understanding that both sides will continue future meetings to review remaining issues.

Mujahid emphasized that Kabul seeks positive relations with Pakistan based on mutual respect, non-interference, and avoidance of actions that could threaten either side.

Speaking to SAMAA TV, Pakistan Information Minister Attaullah Tarar described the outcome as a victory for Pakistan and thanked Qatar and Türkiye for their mediation. He added that the responsibility now rests with the Afghan Taliban to take concrete action against terrorism.

“Pakistan’s stance has been clear, support for terrorism must end. A mechanism for monitoring, verification, and enforcement in case of violations will also be implemented,” he said.