Editorial
Despite recent tensions between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban, particularly over the Taliban’s perceived failure to curb the activities of the banned Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), there are signs of improving relations. Notably, high-level meetings have taken place, such as the recent visit of the top Afghan diplomat in Pakistan to meet with Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, and a prior meeting between Pakistan’s charge d’affaires in Kabul and the Taliban defense minister. While the Foreign Office downplayed the Afghan diplomat’s visit as a mere “courtesy call,” it still reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to dialogue, signaling a willingness to address issues through peaceful means. This is a welcome shift, especially considering the recent confrontations and rhetoric between the two sides.
Kabul must recognize, however, that harboring terrorist groups like the TTP could ultimately undermine the stability of the Taliban regime itself. The assassination of Khalilur Rehman Haqqani, a senior Taliban figure, at the hands of Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) demonstrates the precarious situation Kabul faces. The IS-K, which is believed to have links to the TTP, has emerged as a significant threat, not only to Pakistan but also to the Taliban. This highlights the commonality of the threat both Pakistan and Afghanistan face from IS-K, underscoring the need for cooperation in counterterrorism efforts.
Pakistan should urge the Taliban to take decisive action against the TTP, as the group poses a serious threat to Pakistan’s security. It would be contradictory for the Taliban to fight IS-K on their soil while allowing the TTP to operate freely and target Pakistan. The push for talks between the TTP and Pakistan is unlikely to succeed, as both IS-K and the TTP reject the political process in favor of violence. Continued diplomatic engagement between the two nations should prioritize counterterrorism cooperation, trade, and people-to-people relations, with the understanding that maintaining peaceful ties with Pakistan will benefit Kabul’s international standing.
