ISLAMABAD, Nov 21: Pakistan has reportedly recalibrated its policy toward Afghanistan, moving away from efforts to influence or appease the Afghan Taliban. Islamabad is now adopting a “waiting game,” allowing political and security developments in Afghanistan to unfold independently.
The shift is driven largely by frustration over the Taliban’s failure to act against the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which has carried out some of Pakistan’s deadliest attacks, despite repeated high-level engagements and delegations.
Officials say the lack of meaningful results made Islamabad reluctant to continue carrying the burden of expectations.
For years, Pakistan was seen as the country with unique leverage over the Taliban and was routinely pressed by Western governments to mediate on counterterrorism, governance, and women’s rights issues.
Officials now emphasize that Pakistan will no longer “babysit” Afghanistan or bear the world’s expectations.
The onus is on the Taliban to stabilize their country, while the world must engage with Kabul based on realities rather than assumptions.
The policy shift coincides with evolving regional dynamics, including India’s renewed engagement with Afghanistan, particularly through Chabahar.
Pakistani officials downplayed New Delhi’s moves, saying they pose no strategic threat.
Recent talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan over cross-border terrorism failed to yield an agreement, though temporary peace was restored after clashes in October.
Islamabad’s emerging doctrine focuses on non-intervention, measured engagement, and ending decades of disproportionate responsibility in Afghan affairs. (PTI)
