Afghanistan: Terror, Narcotics, and the Global Security Crisis
Afghanistan’s descent into chaos has transformed into a global crisis, driven by terrorism, narcotics, and human suffering. Since the Taliban’s return, the country has re-emerged as a dangerous incubator for extremist groups and a global hub for narcotics production, creating a vicious cycle that threatens regional stability and international security alike.
Peace Conferences versus Terror Sanctuaries
A two-day peace conference in Islamabad sparked Afghan criticism, yet Kabul itself shelters groups like the TTP and BLA, fueling instability.
Afghan Refugees in Pakistan
This backgrounder examines the long and complex history of Afghan refugees in Pakistan, spanning more than forty years of conflict-driven displacement. It explores the major waves of refugee influx since the Soviet invasion, shifting legal and policy frameworks, and the fluctuating role of international aid. The backgrounder also highlights the profound social, economic, and political impacts on Pakistan, as well as the recent push for mass deportations that raise serious humanitarian and legal concerns.
Corridor of Opportunity: Pakistan as the Gateway for US Investment in Central Asia and Afghanistan
Pakistan’s emerging role as a secure overland gateway to Central Asia offers the U.S. a vital post-Afghanistan route for trade, aid, and regional integration, transforming Islamabad from a security ally into a connectivity partner.
The New Road to Central Asia
After the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, Pakistan offers a vital overland corridor to Central Asia, unlocking trade, stability, and strategic influence.
Afghanistan: A Geopolitical Cauldron and the Rise of Proxy Warfare
Afghanistan’s internal chaos has turned it into a battleground for proxy warfare, with India and Israel allegedly exploiting its instability to target Pakistan, Iran, and regional connectivity projects like CPEC.
A Fragile Opening: What the Pak-Afghan Trade Deal Really Means
The agreement gives Afghanistan vital export routes and positions Pakistan to advance its long-term vision of regional economic connectivity.
A Step Toward Stability: Afghanistan’s Pledge to Disarm the TTP
Afghanistan has pledged to disarm and relocate the TTP—a potential breakthrough in regional counterterrorism efforts.
Proxy, Partner, or Pawn: Situating the TTP in Taliban Strategy
The Afghan Taliban promised peace to the world, but their return to power has fuelled a surge of TTP violence in Pakistan. Why does a government seeking legitimacy refuse to act against its terrorist allies, and what complex forces shape this dangerous and calculated decision?
A Region Held Hostage: The TTP’s Enduring Threat from Afghan Soil
Despite Taliban promises, TTP’s cross-border attacks from Afghan soil persist, exposing a widening gap between Kabul’s rhetoric and ground realities.