Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry has warned that the Afghan Taliban could be considered an Indian proxy if it abandons what Islamabad describes as Afghanistan’s own interests and instead serves India’s efforts to destabilise Pakistan.
The statement, attributed to Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, reflects growing tensions between Islamabad and Kabul as Pakistan continues to raise concerns over security threats allegedly originating from Afghan territory.
According to the spokesman, Pakistan would assess the Taliban’s actions based on whether they serve Afghanistan’s interests or align with what Islamabad characterizes as Indian efforts against Pakistan. The warning suggests that Islamabad’s perception of the Taliban’s relationship with New Delhi could have a direct impact on its approach toward the Afghan authorities.
Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have deteriorated in recent years, particularly over allegations that militant groups use Afghan territory to plan or conduct attacks against Pakistan. Islamabad has repeatedly called on the Taliban authorities to take action against such groups, while Kabul has rejected accusations that it allows its territory to be used against neighbouring countries.
At the same time, India has expanded diplomatic engagement with Afghanistan, adding another layer to the already complex regional relationship.
Pakistan’s latest comments highlight the strategic sensitivity surrounding Afghanistan’s ties with India and the potential consequences for Islamabad-Kabul relations.
The Taliban has not accepted Pakistan’s characterization of its relationship with India and has maintained that Afghanistan seeks independent relations with regional countries.
The statement underscores the continuing rivalry between Pakistan and India and the role Afghanistan plays in their broader regional competition.