The fragile peace in South Asia is under immense strain following Pakistan’s recent airstrikes near Kabul, Afghanistan, ordered by Army Chief General Asim Munir. Pakistan’s official stance is that the operation targeted Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) commander Noor Wali Mehsud, holding him responsible for a devastating attack on Pakistani forces in Orakzai. The military operation has been widely criticized for its potential to destabilize the region further.
However, this narrative was quickly challenged. The TTP released an audio clip, purportedly from Mehsud, denying reports of his death and claiming he is alive and well. This development raises serious questions about the intelligence and effectiveness of Pakistan’s counter-terrorism strategy.
The Taliban government in Afghanistan has issued a strong denouncement of the strikes, characterizing them as a violation of their national sovereignty. Kabul has warned Islamabad that it will ‘pay the price’ for any civilian deaths resulting from the seemingly unprovoked aerial operation.
Adding to the geopolitical intricacies, Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi is currently in India for diplomatic talks with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. India has reaffirmed its dedication to Afghanistan’s sovereignty and security, also announcing the planned reopening of its full embassy in Kabul, signaling a deepening diplomatic relationship.
Domestically, Pakistan is grappling with significant internal challenges. The government has imposed internet blackouts in Islamabad and Rawalpindi amidst escalating protests by the radical Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP). The group’s attempted march towards the U.S. Embassy, linked to the Gaza conflict, has resulted in violent clashes with security forces.