Pak presses Afghan rulers to end TTP's support in Istanbul talks

Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban returned to the negotiating table in Istanbul on Monday for a third round of talks, aiming to ease strains that flared after this month's deadly border confrontations.

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Islamabad reiterated its principled stance, urging the Taliban regime to end its patronage of the khawarij — a term commonly used for outlawed Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP)—which is involved in carrying out deadly attacks in Pakistan, as well as cross-border attacks from Afghanistan.

Meanwhile, Kabul urged “dialogue and understanding” after Islamabad warned of war if talks collapse.

Two weeks ago, Afghanistan launched a border offensive after explosions in Kabul the Taliban authorities blamed on Pakistan, sparking fierce clashes that left dozens dead on both sides, including civilians.

Islamabad responded with strikes against armed groups on Afghan soil, prompting further violence and a short-lived 48-hour ceasefire that collapsed soon after.

A second truce emerged following talks in Doha, mediated by Qatar and Turkey, though its terms remain unclear.

The Istanbul round, which began Saturday, aims to establish mechanisms to uphold the fragile truce and prevent renewed fighting.