Islamic Emirate Defense Minister Says Ready to Defend Afghanistan Amid Tensions with Pakistan

Mawlawi Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid, the Islamic Emirate's Minister of National Defense, stated in an interview with Tolo News that the Islamic Emirate seeks to resolve differences with Pakistan through dialogue but will defend Afghanistan if threats continue.

He noted that several rounds of negotiations with Pakistan had occurred in recent months, mediated by the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia, but these talks failed to produce results. Mujahid said military clashes began from Pakistan's side even as dialogue was ongoing.

One key dispute, according to the minister, is Pakistan's claim of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan presence in Afghanistan, which he described as baseless. He affirmed the Islamic Emirate's readiness to formally commit that Afghan soil will not be used against any country, while demanding a reciprocal guarantee from Pakistan.

Mujahid also addressed the Durand Line as a longstanding issue that should be resolved at the level of the two nations, rather than in current negotiations. He emphasized that the Islamic Emirate has not initiated war and has only responded to attacks.

"If Kabul is targeted, we also have the ability to respond and will defend our people," the minister said. He added that the Islamic Emirate does not want continued war but Afghan forces are prepared to defend the country for a long time if war is imposed.

In closing, Mujahid urged all Afghans not to worry, to live calmly, and reiterated efforts to resolve the crisis through dialogue.