For Pakistan, there is a growing recognition of the need to shift from a confrontational and militancy-focused approach to a more cooperative engagement with Afghanistan. It is imperative that both should unequivocally move away from hostile politics and collaborate in establishing a stable and peaceful environment.
The historical ties between Afghanistan and Pakistan has been intricately complex, characterized by numerous political, security, and economic challenges. A persistent issue in the region revolves around accusations of harboring militants and supporting insurgent groups, which significantly heightens tensions between the neighboring countries. Both have also levied allegations against each other of providing safe havens to militant organizations responsible for launching attacks within their respective territories. This has fueled a cycle of continuous conflict and confrontation, further straining an already delicate relationship.
Furthermore, diplomatic tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan have also been a major factor in their troubled relationship. Disputes over issues such as the Duran Line, violation of trade agreements, and the unjustified deportation of refugees have often led to diplomatic standoffs between the two countries.
The recent regrettable airstrike carried out by Pakistan and the subsequent artillery retaliation by Afghanistan also has the potential to set off a chain of reprisals, resulting in losing their struggle against extremism and letting their adversaries win.
Unfortunately, Pakistan’s military actions and Afghanistan’s counterattacks will only escalate tensions between the two neighboring countries. This situation highlights the volatile nature of relations in the region and the major obstacles to achieving lasting peace. The repercussions of these developments have the potential to extend well beyond the immediate conflict zone and could have a substantial impact on the broader region.
Furthermore, such hostile activities have the potential to exacerbate extremism in the region rather than mitigate it and can lead to a range of unintended consequences that may strengthen extremist groups operating in the area. The civilian casualties can breed resentment among the local population and create a fertile ground for extremist recruitment. The loss of innocent lives can drive individuals towards extremist ideologies as a form of retaliation against the perceived aggressor. Consequently, the instability created by Pakistani airstrikes can lead to radical groups expanding their influence by carrying out attacks under the guise of fighting against foreign aggression.
Pakistan will most likely cite multiple justifications to explain its actions. However, engaging in military actions across the country can lead to retaliatory strikes, undermine diplomatic efforts towards peace and stability in the region, and be seen as a violation of Afghanistan’s sovereignty. As a result, this can lead to increased anti-Pakistan sentiments in Afghanistan and trigger a cycle of violence that only benefits extremist groups.
While Pakistan has consistently asserted that the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) receives support and shelter in Afghanistan, the Taliban-led Afghan government has always refuted these claims as unfounded. Surprisingly, over the past two decades, similar allegations and accusations from the Afghan government have also been denied by Pakistan during the past two decades.
The Taliban, while having gained power and control over Afghanistan, have faced challenges in terms of technical capabilities. Their governance structure may lack the resources to combat multiple militant groups simultaneously. Also, the focus on the Islamic State–Khorasan Province (ISKP) may strain their resources and attention, making it difficult to address other threats comprehensively.
Moreover, the recent series of events, including the airstrike, the unilateral closure of gates, imposing sanctions and taxes on Afghan Transit, and the uncoordinated deportation of Afghans from Pakistan, have collectively fueled anti-Pakistan sentiments in Afghanistan. Simultaneously, the escalating frequency of insurgency and Pakistan’s suspicions regarding the utilization of Afghan territory for orchestrating attacks have heightened Pakistan’s apprehensions.
Pakistan’s strategic depth strategy involves utilizing proxy groups and supporting insurgent factions in Afghanistan to counter perceived threats and advance its own interests. However, these actions have consistently strained Pakistan’s relationships with its allies, who view such behavior as destabilizing and contradictory to their goals of promoting peace and stability in Afghanistan. The spillover effects of long-time militancy in Afghanistan have undoubtedly contributed to internal instability within Pakistan, with terrorist attacks becoming a common occurrence.
For Pakistan, there is a growing recognition of the need to shift from a confrontational and militancy-focused approach to a more cooperative engagement with Afghanistan. This shift signifies a move towards fostering better relations and collaboration between the two countries. This transition would involve prioritizing economic growth and diplomatic engagement to enhance bilateral relations and foster stability in the region. Given the consistent policy failures in Afghanistan over decades, it is crucial for Pakistani policymakers to redirect their focus from a confrontational approach toward supporting moderate voices in the region.
Enhancing economic development and engaging in political initiatives can significantly weaken the appeal of extremist ideologies in the regions. By prioritizing regional connectivity, poverty alleviation, employment opportunities, and social inclusivity, both countries can reduce the susceptibility of their populations to extremist recruitment. This approach necessitates a holistic strategy that tackles the underlying causes of radicalization while nurturing an atmosphere conducive to the growth of moderate perspectives.
To build a more cohesive society, religious and political leaders, using their respective tribunes should actively condemn extremist ideologies and actively promote tolerance and understanding among different religious, ethnic, and political groups.
Although Afghanistan has seen a decrease in overall violence since the Taliban assumed control, internal and external challenges persist. It is crucial for foreign entities including Pakistan to approach engagement with the Taliban cautiously and prioritize regional stability through strategic cooperation rather than resorting to military escalation.
Decades of distrust between Afghanistan and Pakistan have contributed to a profound suspicion of each other’s motives. Overcoming this longstanding mistrust will necessitate untiring efforts and tangible actions from both sides to engage in constructive dialogue, cultivate trust, and exhibit their dedication to regional stability and connectivity.
Also, with the ongoing tensions between the neighboring nations likely to persist, it is crucial to handle this matter carefully until more favorable conditions emerge. To counter the proliferation of extremist ideology in the region, it is imperative that both should unequivocally move away from hostile politics and cooperate in establishing a stable and peaceful environment.
