Global Reports Warn Afghanistan Still Hosts Transnational Militants

UN and Russian assessments highlight persistent militant networks in Afghanistan, raising regional security concerns despite Taliban control.
Media Framing of Terrorism: Al Jazeera and UN-Designated TTP Coverage

Al Jazeera’s portrayal of TTP militants as “fighters” raises concerns over journalistic bias and counterterrorism framing.
Pakistan’s Cross-Border Strikes and the Evolving Counterterror Doctrine
![Afghan men search for victims after a Pakistani air strike hit a residential area in the Girdi Kas village, Nangarhar province on February 22, 2026. [Aimal Zahir/AFP/Getty Images]](https://southasiatimes.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/gettyimages-2262391441.webp)
An analysis of Pakistan’s cross-border action, security rationale, and regional implications amid rising militant threats.
India-Linked Criminal Networks in US: Human Trafficking & Rogue Activity

US arrests highlight India-linked trafficking, transnational crime, and state-linked rogue activity threatening Western security.
TTP Expands into Bangladesh: Transnational Militancy and Regional Risk

TTP’s recruitment in Bangladesh deepens transnational insurgency, highlighting regional security and counter-radicalization challenges.
A Digital Bridge in the Making: Reframing US–Pakistan Economic Engagement

US–Pakistan tech ties deepen as ICT investment, youth talent, and historic academic links reshape bilateral economic cooperation.
Pakistan-Afghanistan Soldier Release

Analysis of the Ramadan-era release of Pakistani soldiers, Saudi mediation, and what it signals for Pakistan-Afghanistan ties.
The Facade of Indian Strategic Autonomy
![Prime Minister Narendra Modi with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar at an official event. [Photo Courtesy: Praveen Jain via The Print].](https://southasiatimes.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/20-scaled-e1755601883425-1024x576-1.webp)
India’s strategic autonomy faces pressure as US trade leverage, energy dependence, and defence ties test New Delhi’s balancing doctrine.
South Asia Times and CISS AJK Sign Memorandum of Understanding

South Asia Times (SAT) and CISS AJK signed a Memorandum of Understanding on 11 February 2026 to collaborate on research, policy briefs and strategic dialogues.