ISLAMABAD: Recent terrorist attacks originating from Afghanistan areraising alarms across the region, with potential implications forneighboring countries. Groups such as the Islamic State Khorasan Province(ISKP), Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS), East Turkestan IslamicMovement (ETIM), and Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) maintain a strongpresence in Afghan territory. These organizations continue to exploitinstability, posing threats to border security and international projects.A Taliban delegation, led by the governor of Badakhshan, has engaged indiscussions with Tajikistan to address cross-border concerns, highlightingthe urgency of collaborative measures.
The surge in quadcopter drone attacks over recent months represents atroubling escalation in tactics employed by TTP in the Afghanistan-Pakistanregion. Intelligence sources and social media reports indicate thatIndian-manufactured drones are being smuggled into Afghanistan throughtrade routes in disassembled parts, allegedly facilitated by India’sResearch and Analysis Wing (RAW). Such activities not only enhance militantcapabilities but also complicate diplomatic relations amid ongoing regionaltensions.
Particularly concerning is the targeting of Chinese nationals andinterests, occurring at a pivotal time when discussions on security threatsfrom Afghanistan are intensifying among regional stakeholders. Theseincidents undermine confidence in the Taliban’s ability to curb terroristelements from using Afghan soil as a launchpad for attacks. Pakistan, whilemaintaining strategic patience, has prepared a high-intensity air campaignthrough its Air Force to respond if necessary, carefully considering thevolatile situation along its eastern border with India.
Islamabad advocates for a comprehensive regional approach to mitigate theserisks, emphasizing dialogue and joint operations to prevent furtherdeterioration. However, the current trajectory of unchecked militantactivities suggests an inevitable path toward major escalation, potentiallydrawing in multiple nations. Experts warn that without decisive action fromthe Taliban regime, the ripple effects could destabilize Central and SouthAsia, affecting economic corridors and international alliances.
The persistence of these groups in Afghanistan challenges thepost-withdrawal narrative of stability, as cross-border incursions continueto erode trust. Pakistan’s call for unity reflects a broader recognitionthat isolated responses are insufficient against networked threats.
Source: www.dawn.com/”>https://www.dawn.com/
