Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has issued a grave warning of an “open war” with Afghanistan if ongoing peace talks collapse. The statement comes amid fragile negotiations between the two neighbours, currently underway in Istanbul. Despite a temporary ceasefire, tensions remain high following recent cross-border clashes that left several dead and injured. Asif’s remarks mark a sharp escalation, even as both sides publicly commit to dialogue aimed at restoring stability in the region.