Taliban Condemns Pahalgam Terror Attack – Jaishankar Thanks Afghanistan, Bilateral Ties See New Momentum
The recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 10 innocent people, has shocked the entire nation and reignited global concerns over terrorism. What stood out, however, was the unexpected response from the Taliban-led interim government in Afghanistan, which strongly condemned the attack. This move was welcomed by India and marked a significant moment in the evolving diplomatic landscape between the two nations.
In response, India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar spoke over the phone with Afghanistan’s acting Foreign Minister, Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi. Jaishankar later shared on social media (X, formerly Twitter) that he expressed gratitude to Afghanistan for their strong condemnation of the Pahalgam attack. But the conversation did not end there — it also explored ways to deepen bilateral cooperation in various sectors.
Jaishankar stated that the two leaders discussed important issues such as trade partnerships, easing visa facilities, and the development of the Chabahar port — a strategic project involving India, Iran, and Afghanistan. Despite India not officially recognizing the Taliban regime, humanitarian and trade-related dialogues have quietly continued in recent years. India has, in fact, provided medical aid, food supplies, and other essential support to the Afghan people in their time of crisis.
The Taliban’s condemnation of the terror attack is being interpreted in global circles as an effort to reposition itself on the international stage — trying to gain legitimacy by signaling that it does not support cross-border terrorism. Given Afghanistan’s historical ties to various militant groups, this statement of condemnation has surprised many but also opened doors for cautious engagement.
India and Afghanistan share deep-rooted historical, cultural, and economic connections. While the political scenario in Afghanistan changed dramatically in 2021, India has maintained a people-centric approach in its foreign policy toward the war-torn nation. The recent communication between the two foreign ministers signals an effort to look beyond political differences and focus on security, development, and mutual interests.
It is noteworthy that the Taliban, despite internal challenges and a lack of global recognition, chose to make a public statement aligning itself with anti-terror sentiments. India welcomed this gesture, acknowledging that global unity against terrorism is essential in today’s volatile geopolitical climate.
Jaishankar’s public statement summed up the tone of India’s response perfectly:
“We appreciate the strong condemnation of the Pahalgam attack. Our conversation with the Afghan Foreign Minister also explored avenues to strengthen trade, facilitate visa processes, and enhance regional cooperation, especially around the Chabahar port.”
In a region fraught with uncertainty, these diplomatic signals between India and Afghanistan indicate that dialogue and cooperation may still thrive, even amid political complexities. More importantly, it emphasizes that the global fight against terrorism transcends borders, ideologies, and regimes — and that unity in condemnation is the first step toward lasting peace.
