Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have escalated dramatically, with Islamabad now pulling India into the fray. In a bold move, Pakistan has accused the Taliban-led government of sheltering Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants, claiming this is enabled by Indian support. This comes after a series of deadly airstrikes and border clashes that have pushed the two neighbors to the brink of open war.
The latest flare-up began when Afghanistan retaliated against Pakistani airstrikes on Kabul and Kandahar. Pakistan had claimed those strikes killed 70 militants, but Kabul vehemently denied this, reporting civilian casualties including women and children. Without evidence, Pakistan pointed fingers at the Taliban for protecting TTP fighters launching attacks from Afghan soil.
Relations between Pakistan and the Taliban soured quickly after the group’s 2021 takeover. Islamabad had hoped to wield influence over the new regime, treating it like a junior partner. Analysts say Pakistan miscalculated badly; the Taliban refused to dance to Pakistan’s tune, leading to friction over border issues and security concerns.
Instead of addressing these directly, Pakistan has shifted blame to India, alleging New Delhi is backing the Taliban against it. India dismissed these claims outright, calling them a distraction from Pakistan’s internal woes. ‘Pakistan has a habit of dumping its problems on others,’ a Delhi official stated.
India’s longstanding ties with Afghanistan run deep. From humanitarian aid after the 6.3 magnitude earthquake—sending 15 tons of food to Balkh and Samangan provinces—to medical supplies, India has been a reliable partner. Last year, Afghanistan’s foreign minister visited India, paving the way for reopening the Kabul embassy.
Pakistan views this growing India-Afghanistan bond with suspicion. It routinely blames India for regional instability, including unsubstantiated claims of Indian funding for TTP. Both India and the Taliban have rejected these accusations as baseless propaganda.
For Pakistan’s government, grappling with economic crisis, TTP resurgence, and public distrust post-Imran Khan’s ouster, the Afghanistan conflict serves as a useful diversion. By invoking India, Islamabad justifies its military actions and rallies domestic support. Experts warn this could further destabilize the region, complicating peace efforts.