Why a Full-blown War Against the Taliban May Not Benefit Pakistan
The Pakistani economy is currently in a fragile state, and a prolonged war could worsen its financial condition. Recently, Pakistan and the Taliban regime started a new round of negotiations in Istanbul, aiming to prevent escalation after violent clashes over the past month. Despite this, both sides accuse each other of breaking the ceasefire, and tensions remain high along the Durand Line, their disputed border.
Military Strength and War Prospects
Pakistan holds a military advantage over the Taliban and might see significant gains from a conflict. However, a drawn-out war may not produce the results Pakistan hopes for, considering the economic and political challenges involved.
Challenges in Legitimizing the War
One major obstacle for Pakistan is legitimizing its conflict with the Taliban. Historically, Pakistan used religious narratives to justify proxy wars in Afghanistan and Kashmir. Today, this strategy is less effective for supporting war against the Taliban.
“Recently, Amir Khan Muttaqi, the Taliban regime’s foreign minister, visited the Deoband seminary in India, which is considered the source of religious guidance for South Asian Muslims.”
This visit by Amir Khan Muttaqi has altered the regional religious dynamics and empowered the Taliban to claim they are the true heirs of the Deobandi school, thus gaining stronger religious legitimacy.
Implications of the Religious Shift
The Taliban’s enhanced claim to religious authority challenges Pakistan’s ability to justify military action on religious grounds, complicating its position both domestically and internationally.
Summary
A full-scale war with the Taliban risks deepening Pakistan’s economic troubles and faces significant hurdles in gaining religious and political legitimacy, making the conflict unlikely to yield the intended benefits.
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