The Taliban in Afghanistan has declined to accept aid from Pakistan for earthquake victims, as reported by The Express Tribune, a Pakistan-based newspaper.

Last Saturday, Afghanistan experienced a 6.3 magnitude earthquake, resulting in the loss of at least 1,000 lives and affecting numerous villages. A subsequent earthquake in the region on Wednesday caused further damage.

In response to the crisis, Pakistan offered assistance, with Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar announcing plans to dispatch rescue and relief teams along with essential aid. However, the aid and rescue teams were not sent to Afghanistan as clearance from Kabul was not granted. Although no official statements were issued by either side, it appears that the ongoing tensions between the two countries were a major factor in Afghanistan's refusal.

The refusal to accept aid was linked to the strained relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan, which have been exacerbated by various recent developments, including Pakistan's deportation of illegal Afghan immigrants, changes to visa policies for Afghans, and restrictions on Afghan imports.

During a weekly news briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch expressed Pakistan's deep sympathy for its Afghan "brothers and sisters" in light of the earthquake's impact. She noted that Pakistan stands in solidarity with Afghanistan and remains in contact with the Interim Afghan Government to offer any necessary support for relief and recovery efforts. However, further details regarding why Pakistan had not yet dispatched aid to Afghanistan were not provided.

In addition, the spokesperson strongly condemned the "indiscriminate and disproportionate" use of force by Israeli authorities against the civilian population in Gaza and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities. She expressed deep concern about the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza due to the inhumane blockade and collective punishment imposed by Israeli forces, particularly the decision to cut off electricity, fuel, and water supplies, emphasizing the severe impact on the lives of Palestinians in the enclave. This information was reported by Dawn.