What Does The Future Hold For Pakistan-Afghanistan Relations? – OpEd
The incidents of December 27-28 are like a constant reminder of Pakistan’s predicament on its western frontier. Time and again, Pakistan forces have shown their mettle in thwarting infiltration attempts decisively and responding to unprovoked aggression with unmatched professionalism. Yet, one uncomfortable truth stands revealed in the aftermath of these skirmishes: the Afghan Taliban’s efforts to create instability and the effort falls short of fighting for peace.
Let’s begin by acknowledging the exemplary performance of Pakistan’s security forces. On the night of December 27-28, a group of 20-25 insurgents—emboldened by the use of Afghan Taliban border posts—tried to infiltrate Kurram and North Waziristan. But thanks to the vigilance and quick action of our forces, the plan was foiled. It didn’t end there. In the early hours of December 28, the same group, again leveraging Afghan Taliban support, attempted another infiltration. When that failed, they turned to outright aggression, launching a heavy weapon assault on Pakistani posts. But Pakistan’s military stood its ground. Not only did they repel the attack, but they also delivered a resounding counterblow, causing significant damage to the attackers. Over 15 insurgents, including Afghan Taliban fighters, were reportedly killed, and six Taliban border posts were abandoned in disarray.
It’s worth noting that while the Afghan side faced heavy losses, Pakistan’s forces suffered no fatalities and only three injuries. This is no small achievement—it reflects the army’s preparedness, superior training, and strategic prowess.
Afghan Taliban: Allies in Name Only?
It is, however, very worrying to see WHO’s role in these unfolding events. This isn’t the first time a blame has been put on them for providing support for anti-Pakistan rebels. Though Pakistan has repeatedly made appeals to the interim Afghan government against any act of cross-border terrorism on her soil very little has been done. Instead of bringing such extremist factions to heel, the Taliban seem to be nurturing them. The use of Afghan Taliban border posts as launching pads for attacks against Pakistan is more than a breach of trust—it’s a betrayal of regional peace. How can a government that claims to uphold Islamic values turn a blind eye to violence against its neighbor? Worse still, how can it justify sheltering and supporting insurgents who thrive on chaos?
This situation raises serious questions about the Taliban’s priorities. Are they genuinely interested in building a peaceful Afghanistan, or are they content to let their country become a playground for extremists? Their actions—or lack thereof—are not just harming Pakistan; they’re destabilizing the entire region.
Pakistan’s Moral High Ground
Amid this chaos, Pakistan has maintained its moral high ground. Despite provocations, Pakistan’s leadership has consistently reached out to the Afghan government, urging cooperation and dialogue. But patience has its limits. Should these insurgents continue to be nourished by the Afghan Taliban, they’ll increasingly find themselves off the world stage. Pakistan’s military has adopted a measured and firm response to attack and has not allowed for undue escalation of the conflict nor for the aggressor to escape unpunished. This middle path of response has reflected on our forces’ professionalism in safeguarding our national sovereignty while ensuring regional stability.
The Way Forward
It is high time that the Afghan Taliban decides on the type of legacy that it wants to leave behind. It can still act as responsible stewards of their country, and it may contribute to regional peace only if the Taliban really means business by taking actions against all insurgent groups operating from its soil. For Pakistan, the message is loud and clear: Pakistan cannot and will not tolerate aggression and interference. The defenders of Pak nation have proved themselves more than capable; a long-term solution shall yield only through consistent diplomatic pressure and engagement by the international community. The world must hold the Afghan Taliban accountable for its actions, or lack thereof, and to urge them to take up their responsibilities, both as a neighbor and as a responsible member of the fraternity of nations. To understand the events of 27-28 December is to learn of strengths and challenges alike. People of Pakistan salute the courage and dexterity of the Pakistani security forces in defending our borders. At the same time, this complicity of the Afghan Taliban in the fighting reminds to enhance international pressure on Kabul to control extremist elements.
Pakistanis take pride in the resilience of our military, yet Pakistan need to monitor for vigilance, unity, and proactivity in countering threats emanating along our borders. If the Afghan Taliban persist with violence, they will simply make themselves even more alien to the global community and deny themselves the promise of a stable and prosperous future.