Vantage | Pakistan can't blame others for mess on its borders, terror within

In a dramatic turn of events, Pakistan finds itself entangled in a complex web of geopolitical repercussions as it grapples with the aftermath of the Taliban’s resurgence in Afghanistan. What initially seemed like a victory lap for Pakistan’s generals has now evolved into a situation where the Taliban, once seen as beholden to Rawalpindi, asserts its independence.

Facilitation and fallout Two years ago, Pakistan’s ISI chief celebrated the departure of American forces from Afghanistan and the collapse of the democratic government, paving the way for the Taliban’s return to power. The takeover was initially viewed as a win for Pakistan’s generals, who were perceived to have facilitated the Taliban’s resurgence. However, this celebration proved short-lived as the Taliban, led by Zabihullah Mujahid, openly challenged Islamabad. Expulsion of Afghan migrants The trigger for the strained relations between Pakistan and the Taliban was the expulsion order issued by Islamabad, forcing thousands of undocumented Afghan migrants to leave. Bulldozers were deployed to demolish Afghan homes outside Islamabad leading to a humanitarian crisis. The Taliban, through Mujahid, issued a strongly worded statement asserting that Afghanistan is not responsible for maintaining peace in Pakistan, urging Islamabad to stop blaming them. “Where should we go? Our position is bad there (Afghanistan), and it is bad here now. I was born here and have spent 40 years here. You tell me, Where should I go now? We are helpless,” said Afghan refugee Khairullah Khan. Facing public backlash, Pakistan’s caretaker Prime Minister, Anwar ul Haq Kakar, blamed the Taliban for the expulsions, arguing that deportations were necessary for Pakistan’s security. Kakar pointed to a sharp increase in terrorist attacks since the Taliban’s return in 2021, with a 60 per cent rise in militia activities and a 500 per cent increase in suicide bombings. Rise of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan The surge in terrorist activities in Pakistan, particularly orchestrated by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), pledged allegiance to the Taliban and gained momentum with the Taliban’s success. The TTP intensified attacks on Pakistani soldiers, ISI and local police officers straining Pakistan’s internal security. In response to the escalating violence, Pakistan demanded action from the Taliban, mediating a ceasefire that ultimately failed. Islamabad then presented Kabul with a stark choice – it’s either Pakistan or the TTP. The Taliban’s apparent alignment with the TTP signalled a significant shift in their relationship. Recent reports suggest a rapid deterioration of Pakistan’s ties with the Taliban. Islamabad is reportedly shifting its policy withdrawing all assistance to the Taliban, revoking special treatment for Taliban leaders and ending its role as an intermediary between the Taliban and the international community. While Pakistan reaps the harvest of its past actions, the repercussions extend beyond its borders, urging regional players to remain vigilant in this evolving geopolitical landscape. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost’s views. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.