Unraveling the Roots of Recurring Conflict Between Pakistan and Afghanistan

Pakistan and Afghanistan share a history of shifting alliances, transforming from former partners into adversaries. Following the 2021 return of the Taliban to power in Kabul, Islamabad initially celebrated the development as a victory, yet bilateral ties have since experienced a sharp decline.

The deterioration stems largely from Islamabad accusing the Afghan government of harbouring the Pakistan Taliban (or TTP) and various armed factions linked to attacks within Pakistan. Meanwhile, Kabul consistently denies sheltering or supporting these militants, and numerous diplomatic and military efforts to halt the hostilities have ultimately collapsed.

As tensions persist, experts weigh in on the potential consequences of this ongoing cycle of violence. The discussion features insights from presenter Adrian Finighan alongside guests Syed Akhtar Ali Shah, former inspector general of police in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province; Faiz Zaland, professor of political science at Kabul University; and Michael Semple, former EU representative in Afghanistan.