Islamabad, 17 Aug, 2023 (GNP): As the Afghan Taliban commemorated two years of controlling Afghanistan on August 15, their relationship with Pakistan, their traditional ally and neighbor, faces escalating tensions.
Pakistan has accused Kabul of responsibility for a series of lethal attacks within its tribal region near the Afghan border. The most recent attack, a suicide bombing in Bajaur district in late July, claimed by an ISIL affiliate (ISIS-K), resulted in over 54 casualties. Islamabad blames the ruling Taliban administration for not effectively preventing armed groups from crossing the porous border.
Top Pakistani officials have warned that they will take necessary action to protect their country under international law. They have criticized the Afghan authorities for not doing enough to curb the movement of armed groups across the border.
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The Taliban administration, while condemning the Bajaur blast, denies Pakistani allegations. They emphasize that they are not in favor of any attack on Pakistan and will not allow Afghanistan’s soil to be used against Pakistan. However, they assert that it is not their responsibility to prevent and control attacks inside Pakistan.
The deteriorating ties between the two countries are reflected in a war of words as both sides exchange accusations. Pakistan has faced increased attacks on its law enforcement personnel and the general public. According to official data, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, including Bajaur, has experienced over 300 attacks in 2023 alone, primarily claimed by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), also known as Pakistan Taliban.
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The TTP, founded in 2007, is ideologically aligned with the Afghan Taliban but operates separately. It seeks stricter enforcement of Islamic laws, the release of its members from government custody, and reduced Pakistani military presence in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The rising number of attacks and conflicting statements indicate the rapidly deteriorating ties between the two nations. While talks have been attempted, violence persists, especially by the TTP. Experts note that the ongoing blame game highlights the challenges of managing relations between the two nations. The intricate history and shared border contribute to the complexity of their relationship.
Despite efforts at dialogue, the tensions remain a concern for regional security. The complexity of the situation underscores the need for continuous diplomatic engagement to address shared concerns and mitigate the risk of further escalation.