Diplomatic sources say delegations from Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban are scheduled to meet in Doha today, following a temporary truce requested by the Taliban.
According to the reports, the Taliban delegation will be led by Defence Minister Mullah Yaqoob, while Pakistan will be represented by a team of senior security officials. Sources said the Taliban altered their original travel plans after the United Nations Security Council did not grant clearance for the earlier delegation.
Islamabad had announced a 48-hour temporary ceasefire starting at 1800 hours on 15 October in response to the Taliban’s request, with officials saying both sides would use the pause to pursue a negotiated solution through dialogue.
Background: heavy cross-border exchanges erupted on the night between 11 and 12 October, when Afghan Taliban forces opened fire across the border. Officials on both sides reported clashes in eastern Afghan provinces, including Kunar, Nangarhar, Paktika, Khost and Helmand. Islamabad issued warnings asking Kabul not to provide sanctuary to militants linked to attacks inside Pakistan.
Security sources say Pakistani forces mounted a strong counter-response that forced several militant positions to withdraw; Afghan authorities earlier warned they would respond if their territory was violated again.
Today’s Doha talks are being watched closely by regional capitals and diplomats as a chance to stabilise the border and seek a peaceful de-escalation through negotiation.
