Kabul’s Critical Choice: Pakistan or TTP?
The situation between Pakistan and Afghanistan’s Taliban government has reached a critical stage. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, during his visit to Bannu on Saturday, openly called on Kabul’s rulers to “choose between Pakistan and the banned TTP.”
The Core Issue
Pakistan has repeatedly urged the Afghan Taliban to take action against the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other militant groups allegedly operating from Afghan soil. Islamabad’s concern is based on the rising number of terrorist attacks in Pakistan, many of which have resulted in heavy troop casualties. Just last week, at least 19 soldiers were martyred in counterterrorism operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Pakistan’s frustration is evident. Diplomatic efforts, including multiple visits to Kabul by Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, as well as regional cooperation mechanisms involving China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, have so far failed to convince the Taliban to act decisively.
Carrots and Sticks
Over the past two years, Pakistan has pursued both engagement and military action. While offering incentives for regional integration, Islamabad has also conducted targeted strikes inside Afghanistan to eliminate militant sanctuaries. Despite these efforts, the Taliban have shown reluctance to act against groups ideologically aligned with them.
Regional and Global Stakes
The Afghan Taliban’s continued association with groups like the TTP has wider consequences. It undermines Afghanistan’s prospects for regional integration, economic opportunities, and global recognition. A UN monitoring body has repeatedly confirmed the presence of militant networks in Afghanistan, making the Taliban’s denials unconvincing.
The Way Forward
For Pakistan, the situation is deeply complex. Breaking ties with Kabul could push the Taliban toward more extreme positions, while maintaining the status quo means continued cross-border militancy. The most viable option for now appears to be measured engagement, backed by pressure from regional stakeholders such as China, to push Kabul toward responsible action.
At the same time, Pakistan must continue to strengthen its counterterrorism strategies to prevent infiltration and protect both its security forces and civilians.
The choice ultimately lies with the Afghan Taliban: whether to remain tied to their ideological allies or take meaningful steps to reassure their neighbours and the international community.
