THE ministerial meeting of the Quadrilateral Group—comprising Pakistan, China, Iran, and Russia—has underscored a pressing reality: the security challenges emanating from Afghanistan pose a significant threat to both regional and global stability. This sentiment echoes a prior UN report highlighting the existence of terrorist sanctuaries in Afghanistan, a situation that has particularly endangered Pakistan.
Since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, Pakistan has witnessed a concerning surge in militant attacks, with a notable spike in violence recorded in recent months. According to data from the Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS), the situation is deteriorating alarmingly. In August alone, Pakistan experienced a dramatic increase in attacks, rising from 38 in July to 59. The numbers are sobering: 29 attacks in KP, 28 in Balochistan, and two in Punjab reflect a clear pattern of escalating violence that cannot be ignored. Pakistan has consistently called upon the Taliban government to take responsibility for curbing the activities of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other militant groups exploiting Afghan territory for cross-border attacks. Yet, these appeals seem to resonate within an echo chamber, falling on deaf ears. The international community must recognize that failing to address these concerns only exacerbates instability, not just for Pakistan but for the entire region. The need for proactive engagement with Afghanistan is critical. Regional powers must collectively urge the Afghan government to adopt stringent counter-terrorism measures. This is not merely a matter of national security for Pakistan but a regional imperative. By fostering dialogue and collaboration, these countries can assist Afghanistan in building a robust framework to combat terrorism. Moreover, it is crucial for Afghanistan to understand that eradicating terrorism is not just about regional security—it is about gaining legitimacy on the international stage and improving the living conditions of its people. A stable Afghanistan is essential for regional peace. Engaging with Afghanistan and offering support in counter-terrorism efforts will be vital steps toward this end.
