Former Pakistani Senator Afrasiab Khattak says that Islamabad’s five-decade policy toward Afghanistan has been a “failure.” In an interview with Afghanistan International, he stated that Pakistan is now attempting to create a new alliance and alter the political dynamics in Afghanistan by inviting figures and groups opposed to the Taliban.
During the interview on Friday, 19 Saratan, Khattak discussed Pakistan’s security and political crises, Islamabad’s relations with Afghanistan and the Taliban, and the growing attacks by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA).
The Pakistani politician said that Islamabad must change its approach toward Afghanistan in order to reduce security threats. He added that the invitation extended to Taliban opponents is aimed at forming a new alliance, but that its purpose is not to overthrow the Taliban government.
According to Khattak, Pakistan is seeking changes in Afghanistan’s leadership and power structure. He warned that continuing policies that have been repeatedly tested over the past 50 years without producing results could provoke reactions from Afghanistan.
He also referred to Islamabad’s past support for the Taliban, saying that Pakistan has never had a clear and independent policy toward Afghanistan and has largely operated within the framework of the policies of major global powers.
Discussing Pakistan’s domestic situation, Khattak said the country is facing serious political and economic crises, and that its leaders are attempting to draw public attention away from internal problems by highlighting diplomatic achievements.
He described the security situation in Balochistan as deeply concerning, saying that the activities of various armed groups have caused widespread instability in the region. In his view, the situation has reached a level close to open conflict.
The former Pakistani senator attributed the rise in attacks across Pakistan to the continuation of past policies by Islamabad. He said the Pakistani military does not view the Taliban alone as a major threat, but also considers “Baloch and Pashtun nationalism” to be a significant concern.
Relations between the Taliban and Pakistan have become increasingly strained in recent years amid rising attacks by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and growing border tensions. Islamabad has repeatedly accused the Taliban of providing shelter to TTP members, while Taliban officials have denied these allegations.
Writer:Salima Aryaei
