Pakistan has warned the Taliban leadership that providing sanctuary or assistance to militant groups, particularly those attacking Pakistan, cannot be tolerated. The message was delivered during the second round of bilateral security talks held in Istanbul, according to Pakistani media reports on Sunday.

Officials urged the Taliban to implement credible measures to eliminate cross-border threats originating from Afghanistan territory. They insisted that the responsibility now lies with Kabul's authorities to ensure Pakistan's security concerns are addressed.

Pakistani negotiators reportedly described Taliban arguments during the session as unrealistic and disconnected from conditions on the ground. They believe the Taliban are pursuing an ambiguous agenda that offers no benefit to Afghanistan, Pakistan, or overall regional stability.

The delegation stressed that continued engagement and progress in the talks depend strictly on constructive behaviour from the Taliban. Islamabad's stance reflects a growing sense of urgency over attacks linked to the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which Pakistan says operates from inside Afghanistan.

The Istanbul talks also include discussions on creating a joint monitoring mechanism to counter terrorist activity, alongside efforts to establish a longer-term political agreement aimed at easing tensions along the shared border.

Analysts say Pakistan's increasingly direct pressure signals a deepening trust deficit between the two neighbours. They warn that without verifiable counter-terror commitments, security cooperation may deteriorate further.

Diplomatic observers argue that sustained collaboration remains essential for preventing wider instability. A durable settlement could lower friction across one of the region's most volatile frontiers and support broader regional peace efforts.

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