Negotiations between Kabul authorities and a Pakistani delegation in Istanbul have entered a third day with no tangible progress reported, as both sides struggle to agree on measures to counter cross-border militant threats. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed on Monday that discussions remain inconclusive.

Mujahid said Kabul remains patient and continues to seek constructive outcomes. He added that officials are awaiting practical results that address the interests of both countries. Disagreements over enforcement mechanisms remain a persistent obstacle.

Pakistani officials have openly questioned Kabul's sincerity, accusing Afghan authorities of failing to curb militant groups, particularly Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), alleged to be operating from Afghanistan soil. Islamabad insists the threat must be addressed through verifiable counterterror actions.

Sources say a joint communiqué is expected at the end of the talks, outlining the extension of the ceasefire, reopening of routes, humanitarian gestures such as the release of selected detainees, and a schedule for the next meeting. Additional cooperation topics are also under review.

Pakistani media report that Islamabad has delivered its final position, making it clear that any tolerance or sheltering of militants targeting Pakistan is unacceptable. Delegates urged Kabul to take decisive steps to dismantle terrorist networks within Afghanistan's borders.

The Istanbul dialogue follows a first round of talks in Doha where both sides agreed to a temporary ceasefire. Islamabad sees the latest negotiations as a crucial test of the Taliban administration's credibility on security commitments.

Regional observers warn that prolonged deadlock risks deepening mistrust and increasing instability along the frontier. A successful monitoring mechanism could relieve tensions, but progress will depend on transparent action from Kabul and sustained engagement from Islamabad.

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