High-level delegations from Pakistan and Afghanistan, including intelligence chiefs, deputy prime ministers, and defense and foreign ministers, commenced talks in Doha, Qatar, on October 16th, 2025, according to a source with knowledge of the developments. The discussions are occurring amidst heightened regional tensions and reports of military movements towards the border. Over the past hour, footage has emerged online showing Pakistani forces moving heavy military equipment, including tanks, toward the Afghan border, reportedly filmed in Quetta. This activity follows a ceasefire announcement, though its impact remains unclear. The Khorasan Diary reported on the commencement of these talks, citing a source in Qatar. Further complicating the regional security landscape, Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has announced an upcoming video statement from its chief, Noor Wali Mehsud, who reportedly denies reports of his killing in recent airstrikes in Kabul. This announcement comes despite previous reports of Pakistan's Security Forces thwarting an infiltration attempt by the TTP from Afghanistan into the Momand area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, resulting in the deaths of approximately 45-50 TTP terrorists. In parallel, Pakistan's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) clarified that no telephonic talks have occurred between Indian Prime Minister Modi and US President Donald Trump yesterday, October 15th, 2025. This statement addresses a separate diplomatic development outside of the immediate Pakistan-Afghanistan context. Earlier on October 16th, 2025, Pakistan had ordered the immediate evacuation and deportation of refugees from twenty-eight Afghan refugee camps in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. This directive was disseminated through official channels. The Afghan Freedom Front (AFF) had also claimed responsibility for the assassination of a Taliban commander, Qari Khalid, in Kunduz province on October 15th, 2025.
