| PYQ Relevance: Q) The proposed withdrawal of International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) from Afghanistan in 2014 is fraught with major security implications for the countries of the region. Examine in light of the fact that India is faced with a plethora of challenges and needs to safeguard its own strategic interests. (UPSC CSE 2014) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on Afghanistan (2014), and ‘Increasing cross-border terrorist attacks ’ (2016).
On December 27, 2024, Pakistan’s Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director-General reported that 383 Pakistani security personnel were killed in counter-terrorism operations during the year. He stated that around 60,000 intelligence-based operations led to the elimination of 925 terrorists, including TTP members. While highlighting Pakistan’s support for Afghanistan, he firmly declared that TTP attacks on Pakistani citizens would not be tolerated, criticising Afghanistan for allegedly sheltering the group.
Today’s editorial talk about the issues related to Afghanistan and Pakistan and how India can take benefits from it. This content can be used in Mains GSII paper to substantiate the regional issues which affect India.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The Taliban’s return to power has turned Afghanistan into a serious problem for Pakistan’s security.
What are the implications of Pakistan’s recent military actions in Afghanistan?
- Casualties and Escalation: The Director-General of Pakistan’s ISPR reported that 383 Pakistani security personnel lost their lives in counter-terrorism operations in 2024, while 925 terrorists, including TTP members, were eliminated in about 60,000 operations. This indicates a significant escalation in military engagement, which may lead to further retaliatory actions from Afghanistan.
- Retaliatory Strikes: Following an attack by the TTP that killed 16 Pakistani soldiers, Pakistan conducted air strikes in eastern Paktika province, reportedly killing 46 individuals. This tit-for-tat response has exacerbated tensions and risks deepening the conflict between the two nations.
- Diplomatic Failure: The timing of military actions during diplomatic talks with Taliban leaders suggests a failure in Pakistan’s strategy to de-escalate tensions. This could undermine future diplomatic efforts and solidify hostilities between the two countries.
How is Pakistan’s historical strategy of supporting certain factions in Afghanistan affecting its current diplomatic relations?
- Support for Extremist Groups: Pakistan’s long-standing support for the Afghan Taliban and Haqqani network has backfired, as these groups now pose a threat to Pakistan’s own security through affiliations with the TTP. This creates a perception that both groups are intertwined, complicating diplomatic relations.
- Strategic Depth vs. Strategic Ditch: Initially viewed as a means to gain strategic depth against India, the return of the Taliban has turned Afghanistan into a “strategic ditch” for Pakistan.
- This shift reflects the unintended consequences of Pakistan’s historical policies and its inability to control former proxies.
- Border Disputes: The Afghan Taliban’s rejection of the Durand Line as a legitimate border complicates relations further. Kabul’s claims over Pakistani territories exacerbate tensions and highlight the fragility of diplomatic ties rooted in historical grievances.
| How can India take benefit from this situation? • Enhanced Regional Influence: India can leverage Pakistan-Afghanistan tensions to deepen its engagement with Afghanistan through developmental assistance and economic ties. • Counter-Terrorism Cooperation: Pakistan’s focus on its western border provides India an opportunity to strengthen its counter-terrorism initiatives along the LoC and its own western borders. • Strategic Regional Partnerships: India can position itself as a stabilizing force by fostering regional initiatives that exclude Pakistan, such as through expanded ties with Central Asia and Afghanistan. |
What are the potential pathways for reconciliation between Pakistan and Afghanistan amid escalating violence? (Way forward)
- Dialogue and Diplomacy: Continued dialogue is essential, as evidenced by Muhammad Sadiq Khan’s visit to Kabul. However, for effective reconciliation, both sides must prioritize genuine engagement over military actions that undermine trust.
- Addressing Core Issues: To move forward, both nations need to address underlying issues such as border disputes and mutual security concerns. Acknowledging and resolving these contentious points could pave the way for more stable relations.
- International Mediation: Given the complexities involved, seeking mediation from international actors could help facilitate discussions and provide neutral ground for negotiations. This approach might alleviate some pressures from both sides while addressing broader security concerns.
