IN a recent turn of events, the Afghan Taliban Chief Haibatullah Akhundzada has reportedly directed the TTP to revisit its strategy towards Pakistan following a meeting with Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the head of Jamiat-e-Ulema Islam-Fazl. Fazl was told by the Taliban supreme leader that he had directed the TTP leadership to reduce the violence.
The very statement by the Afghan Taliban Chief clearly indicates the significant influence the current Afghan authorities hold over the TTP but we do not believe such a direction will have any impact. While the Afghan Taliban chief’s directive emphasizes a reduction in violence, the true imperative lies in the total elimination of terrorism. Pakistan has long suffered the consequences of violence spilling over from Afghanistan and has consistently urged Afghan authorities to rein in terrorist elements. The call for a reassessment must extend beyond a superficial reduction in violence to eradicating the menace of terrorism altogether. The Taliban supreme leader has reportedly offered his good offices for the revival of talks between Pakistan and the TTP. Historically, such dialogues have failed to produce tangible results, and skepticism persists regarding their potential efficacy in the future. The Afghan authorities must compel the TTP to shun violence and completely surrender. Those involved in acts of terrorism inside Pakistan and responsible for the killing of our security personnel and innocent civilians must be handed over to Pakistan for their trial under our laws. The impact of terrorism transcends national borders, affecting the stability of both Pakistan and Afghanistan. The Afghan government, by taking decisive action against terrorist elements, can not only secure its own peace but also gain international credibility. The elimination of terrorism is not just a matter of security; it is a path towards global recognition and economic prosperity. By demonstrating a commitment to eradicate terrorist elements, the Afghan government can create an environment conducive to foreign investment. This will play a pivotal role in the reconstruction of the nation and the improvement of living standards for its people. Collaborative efforts between Pakistan and Afghanistan are crucial to ensuring lasting stability in the region.
