SECURITY — May 13, 2026
Pakistan Defense Minister Warns of Open War Amid Tensions with Taliban
Pakistan's Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has warned of potential military escalation, claiming that dialogue with the Taliban regarding cross-border terrorism has been ineffective.
The Ehtebar Desk — originates with Afghanistan International — corroborated by Amu TV — 2 min read
Pakistan's Defense Minister Khawaja Asif stated during a speech to the National Assembly on Wednesday that diplomatic efforts with the Taliban have failed to secure written guarantees against cross-border terrorism. Asif described the dialogue as "useless," noting that while verbal agreements have been made, the Taliban have refused to provide written commitments.
Asif accused India of managing a war against Pakistan through Kabul and warned that "open war" or "direct confrontation" remains an option if support for terrorists continues.
Mediation efforts involving Turkey, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia have been attempted to reduce tensions. The Taliban have consistently denied allegations that they allow Afghan soil to be used for attacks against Pakistan.
While the Defense Minister highlighted deteriorating relations, Amu TV reports that Pakistan's ambassador to Russia, Faisal Niaz Termizi, stated that tensions between the Taliban and Pakistan have "calmed down." Additionally, UN data indicates that 372 civilians were killed and 397 injured in clashes between the Taliban and Pakistan from January 1 to March 31.
Read the original reporting at Afghanistan International →
Reliability assessment
The core event—a public speech by a named government official (Defense Minister Khawaja Asif) in the National Assembly—is corroborated by two independent sources. The reporting focuses on 'X said Y', which is a verifiable fact of public record.
The source language reads straight.
Across the newsrooms
Where reports agree
- Defense Minister Khawaja Asif delivered a speech to the National Assembly on Wednesday.
- Asif claims the Taliban provide verbal agreements but refuse written commitments regarding terrorism.
- Mediation efforts involving Turkey, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia have taken place.
- The Pakistani Defense Minister has threatened military escalation if the security situation does not improve.
- The Taliban consistently deny using Afghan soil for attacks against Pakistan.
Where reports differ
- The current state of diplomatic relations: Defense Minister Asif describes dialogue as 'useless' and relations as deteriorating, while Ambassador Faisal Niaz Termizi claims tensions have 'calmed down'.
Filed by 2 outlets
Afghanistan International
Originating
Reported straight
Reported straight
Amu TV
Reported straight
Reported straight
Filed under
Security — Khawaja Asif, Pakistan, Taliban, India, United Nations
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