Defence Minister Khawaja Asif issued a stark warning after Istanbul talks failed, saying Pakistan could “completely obliterate” the Taliban without using its full arsenal if provoked.
Asif repeated that Islamabad has the option of open war if negotiations produce no lasting security guarantees, stressing the state’s right to defend its citizens.
He accused the Taliban rulers of failing to act against militant groups operating from Afghan soil and vowed Pakistan would not tolerate ongoing cross-border attacks.
Following the remarks, Islamabad raised military readiness along the border and ordered increased surveillance, according to security sources and local reporting.
Regional diplomats warned that such rhetoric risks escalating tensions quickly, urging renewed diplomacy and third-party mediation to prevent a dangerous confrontation.
The Taliban government has so far denied harbouring anti-Pakistan militants; observers say de-escalation will require verifiable actions and sustained dialogue.
Also read: Naqvi Vows to Resolve Differences with Kabul Through Dialogue
