Navigating volatile Af-Pak belt requires Delhi to be nimble, Pg10

Key Highlights:

• Pakistan's Defence Minister declared an "open war" with Afghanistan, citing terror attacks originating from Afghan soil.
• The core issue is Pakistan's desire to control Afghanistan, but the Taliban now acts independently and doesn't recognize the Durand Line.
• Pakistan has imposed trade restrictions, expelled Afghans, and conducted airstrikes, while the Taliban denies supporting Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
• Recent hostilities include Pakistani airstrikes and Taliban offensives, leading to international calls for restraint.
• India has condemned Pakistan's actions, reaffirmed support for Afghanistan's sovereignty, and upgraded engagement with the Taliban.

Detailed Insights:

• Pakistan's support for the Taliban in Afghanistan has backfired, as the Taliban now operates independently and challenges Pakistan's interests.
• The Durand Line dispute and accusations of harboring terrorists fuel the conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
• Pakistan's actions, including airstrikes and trade restrictions, have failed to achieve desired outcomes and have escalated tensions.
• An all-out military conflict is not in either party's interest, as the Taliban is a resilient force that can employ guerrilla tactics.
• China's attempts at mediation have been unsuccessful, while the United States has expressed support for Pakistan's right to defend itself.
• India's concerns stem from the potential use of Afghan territory for terrorism against it, necessitating a pragmatic approach to the Taliban government.
• The instability in the Af-Pak region requires India to be adaptable and protect its strategic interests.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Durand Line: The 2,670-kilometer (1,660 miles) international border between Afghanistan and Pakistan.
• Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP): A Pakistani militant group allied with the Afghan Taliban.
• Af-Pak Region: A term referring to the region encompassing Afghanistan and Pakistan, often used in the context of security and geopolitical issues.