The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has accused Pakistan of initiating the latest escalation between the two neighbouring countries, urging the United States to acknowledge that the source of instability lies on the Pakistani side.

Islamic Emirate spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said Kabul favours dialogue and diplomatic engagement to resolve disputes with Islamabad, adding that the government would welcome any country willing to mediate between the two sides.

Responding to recent remarks by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Mujahid said Pakistan was pursuing confrontation and repeatedly making accusations against Afghanistan rather than seeking a peaceful solution.

He stressed that such an approach served neither country's interests and risked further aggravating tensions between the neighbouring states.

Mujahid's remarks followed Rubio's statement that Pakistan was concerned about the alleged use of Afghan territory for attacks against its security forces. The US secretary of state also accused the Islamic Emirate of failing to take sufficient measures to prevent such activities.

Rejecting the accusations against Kabul, Mujahid reiterated that the Islamic Emirate remained committed to resolving differences through diplomatic channels.

He added that Afghanistan was prepared to engage with Washington if the United States could play a constructive role in reducing tensions and facilitating a peaceful settlement.

The latest exchange of statements comes amid deteriorating relations between Kabul and Islamabad, with border security, militant activity and mutual accusations continuing to strain ties between the two countries.

The Islamic Emirate has repeatedly rejected allegations that Afghan territory is being used to launch attacks against Pakistan, while Islamabad has called on Kabul to take stronger action against armed groups it accuses of operating from Afghanistan.

Kabul, however, maintains that the problems should be addressed through dialogue, mutual respect for sovereignty and non-interference in each other's internal affairs. (ILKHA)