Former Pakistani Envoy: Majority of Afghans don’t support Taliban
Asif Durrani, the former representative of Pakistan for Afghanistan, stated that the majority of Afghans do not support the Taliban regime. Referring to the Taliban’s claim of engagement with 40 countries worldwide, he emphasized that the group lacks both domestic and international legitimacy and remains globally isolated.
Asif Durrani, the former special representative of Pakistan for Afghanistan, stated today, Sunday, January 12, that 64% of Afghans do not support the Taliban.
Speaking at a session in Islamabad, he emphasized that the Taliban lack even domestic legitimacy and warned them against “throwing stones from glass houses.”
Durrani further cautioned that Pakistan might consider options such as halting trade with Afghanistan if the Taliban continue their relationship with the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
According to him, the Taliban must accept hostility with Pakistan and bear the consequences in exchange for supporting the TTP.
He added, “They should not forget that they have not yet established themselves as the legitimate rulers of Afghanistan, even within their own country. Sixty-four percent of Afghans do not support the Taliban. Therefore, while sitting in a glass house, they should refrain from throwing stones. It is crucial for them to realize this, especially when Pakistan has stood by them all along.”
The TTP is considered one of the primary causes of insecurity in Pakistan. Islamabad believes that the group orchestrates attacks on Pakistan under the protection of the Taliban in Afghanistan.
The former Pakistani envoy highlighted that the recent airstrike by Pakistan’s military in parts of Paktika province was merely a warning to the Taliban. He stated that if the Taliban persist in their ties with the TTP, Pakistan might take further measures, including shutting down trade routes between the two countries.
He asserted that the Taliban cannot survive without Pakistan’s support.
Durrani remarked, “This is a warning shot, signaling that you cannot have your cake and eat it too. They need to understand that they remain isolated in the world. If they believe they have relationships with more than 40 countries, they are mistaken—none of those countries officially recognize them.”
Meanwhile, the Taliban deny the presence of TTP activities in Afghanistan, claiming that ISIS-Khorasan operates from within Pakistan, where they have training camps and sanctuaries to plan attacks against Afghanistan.
The remarks by Asif Durrani reflect the growing strain in relations between Pakistan and the Taliban-led government in Afghanistan. While Pakistan has historically supported the Taliban, the continued association with groups like the TTP could significantly impact bilateral ties and regional security.
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