Once again, Pakistan is in the world news, this time regarding political instability, regional tensions, and threats of war. Defense Minister Khawaja Asif threat of “open war” with Afghanistan if peace talks were not successful raised serious concerns regarding the stability of Pakistan and the peace of the region. As Pakistan celebrates 75 years of independence, it finds itself in crisis with strained relations with India, new tensions with Afghanistan, and increasing instability within its borders. The question now is whether Pakistan’s continued existence as a stable state is at risk.
Peace Talks Amid Rising Tensions
Pakistan and Afghanistan have begun the second round of peace talks in Istanbul, mediated by Qatar and Turkey, with the aim of restoring peace along the Durand Line and curbing TTP activities. Defense Minister Khawaja Asif led the first round in Doha (Oct 18–19). This time, a two-member Pakistani team meets the Afghan delegation led by Rahmatullah Mujib and Anas Haqqani. Asif warned that if talks fail, Pakistan may have to opt for open conflict, though both sides still express a desire for peace.
Pakistan’s Diplomatic Struggles Deepen
Tensions between Islamabad and Kabul are rising as Pakistan faces growing diplomatic strain. After India suspended the Indus Water Treaty post the Pahalgam terror attack (April 22), Afghanistan has now announced plans to build dams on the Kunar River, which could affect Pakistan’s water supply. Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada has ordered immediate construction using domestic firms, just weeks after a ceasefire ended violent border clashes.
The Kunar River Dispute
The Kunar River, a 480-kilometer-long river running from Gilgit-Baltistan to Afghanistan’s Nangarhar Province, is a critical source of irrigation and power for both countries. Nevertheless, tensions have escalated over Afghanistan’s new dam project, considered by Kabul as a development and sovereignty issue and by Islamabad as a security and water issue.
Internal and External Pressures on Pakistan
Pakistan is facing domestic problems as well as foreign pressures, including a grave economic crisis, increasing TTP extremism, and political instability. Khawaja Asif’s pointed language epitomizes those domestic issues and reflects Islamabad’s irritation at losing influence in the region, particularly in the wake of India’s stand and Afghanistan’s newfound independence.
