Recent mediation efforts by Saudi Arabia to broker a ceasefire between Afghanistan and Pakistan appear to have stalled, with reports indicating that high-level talks held in Riyadh have failed to achieve a breakthrough. Sources familiar with the situation have indicated that a Taliban delegation met with Pakistani officials in the Saudi capital, but these discussions did not result in a resolution to the ongoing hostilities. This latest attempt to de-escalate tensions follows previous failed negotiation attempts mediated by Turkey and Qatar, highlighting the deep-seated mistrust between the two neighboring nations.
The volatile border region has been a flashpoint for increased fighting over the past month, with Pakistan alleging that Afghanistan harbors elements responsible for attacks on its territory. Kabul, however, has consistently denied these accusations and, in turn, has accused Pakistan of forcibly expelling Afghan refugees. The ongoing border closure, reportedly for over 47 days, has severely impacted trade and economic relations, with Afghanistan’s Ministry of Economy urging neighboring countries to decouple political disputes from economic ties.
Traders on both sides are facing substantial losses due to the halted trade routes. Despite historical defense agreements, Saudi Arabia has largely maintained a neutral stance, urging restraint from both parties. Earlier efforts to establish a temporary ceasefire in Doha showed initial promise but ultimately failed to secure lasting agreements in subsequent meetings. The lack of progress in these mediated talks underscores the complex challenges in resolving the long-standing issues between Pakistan and Afghanistan.