Afghanistan Offensive: Pakistan’s Risky Move Fuels Regional Tensions

Pakistan’s military has launched airstrikes targeting alleged TTP strongholds near Kabul, a decisive action initiated by Army Chief General Asim Munir that has sharply escalated regional tensions. The stated objective was to apprehend Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) commander Noor Wali Mehsud, implicated in a lethal attack on Pakistani forces. However, this claim was met with an immediate denial from the TTP, which released an audio message purportedly from Mehsud, asserting his survival. This contradiction has significantly undermined the perceived success of the operation and drawn sharp criticism. This military engagement is now being widely characterized as a significant strategic error for Pakistan. Kabul’s Taliban administration has issued a strong condemnation, branding the strikes a violation of Afghan sovereignty and warning of a retaliatory response, stating Pakistan would face consequences for civilian deaths. The delicate diplomatic landscape is further complicated by the current visit of Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to India for discussions with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. India has reaffirmed its commitment to Afghanistan’s sovereignty and security and announced plans for its embassy’s full reopening in Kabul. Internally, Pakistan is experiencing significant domestic turmoil, with internet outages in major cities amidst protests by the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) group. Their attempt to march on the US Embassy, protesting the Gaza conflict, resulted in clashes with law enforcement. The ramifications of General Munir’s decision are far-reaching and destabilizing.