Pakistan Conducts Strikes in Afghanistan Amid Deteriorating Relations

Pakistan has conducted new strikes inside Afghanistan. Historically, Pakistan and Afghanistan were allies, but their relationship has become increasingly adversarial. In 2021, Pakistan supported the Taliban's return to power in Kabul, viewing it as a victory. However, relations have since deteriorated, partly due to accusations that the Afghan government is harboring the Pakistan Taliban (TTP) and other armed groups responsible for attacks within Pakistan. The Afghan government has denied these allegations. Various attempts to cease hostilities have been unsuccessful. The implications of this ongoing cycle of violence remain uncertain. Experts consulted include Syed Akhtar Ali Shah, former inspector general of police in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province; Faiz Zaland, a professor of political science at Kabul University; and Michael Semple, a former EU representative in Afghanistan.