At a Shared Symbol of Jihad, the Taliban Defy Their Old Ties With Pakistan

Afghan officials condemn Pakistan’s lingering influence

In a wave of sharp criticism, senior Afghan officials have publicly accused the Pakistani military of meddling in Afghanistan’s internal affairs. The accusations come as border skirmishes and diplomatic spats between Kabul and Islamabad have escalated over the past several weeks.

Historical bonds under strain

For decades, the Taliban’s rise to power was closely linked to Pakistan’s Inter‑Services Intelligence (ISI), which provided training, funding, and logistical support during the insurgency against former Afghan governments. That relationship, once a cornerstone of the Taliban’s legitimacy, is now being called into question by both Afghan politicians and the Taliban’s own leadership.

Symbolic defiance at the “Jihad” monument

During a recent ceremony at the controversial “Jihad” monument on the Afghan‑Pakistani border, Taliban commanders raised the Afghan flag while refusing to acknowledge any Pakistani presence. The act was widely interpreted as a deliberate message: the Taliban are asserting their sovereignty and distancing themselves from their former patrons.

Rising hostilities on the frontier

Since early October, there have been at least seven reported exchanges of fire along the Durand Line, resulting in casualties on both sides. Afghan officials allege that Pakistani troops have crossed into Afghan territory, while Islamabad denies the claims and accuses Kabul of “provocative incursions.” The situation has prompted a surge of nationalist rhetoric in both capitals.

Political fallout in Kabul

President Hibatullah Akhundzada’s administration has issued a formal protest to Islamabad, demanding an end to “unlawful interference” and the withdrawal of any foreign operatives from Afghan soil. Meanwhile, opposition parties in Kabul have seized the moment to demand a reassessment of Afghanistan’s foreign policy, urging the Taliban to pursue a more independent diplomatic path.

International reactions

The United Nations has called for “immediate de‑escalation” and urged both governments to engage in dialogue. The United States and European allies have warned that continued clashes could jeopardize the fragile humanitarian aid flows that many Afghans rely on.

Looking ahead

Analysts warn that the rift between the Taliban and Pakistan could reshape regional dynamics. If the Taliban continue to distance themselves from Pakistani support, they may seek new allies or adopt a more isolationist stance, potentially altering the balance of power in South‑Central Asia.