Pakistan–Afghanistan Tensions: Historical Fault Lines Behind the Latest Escalation

Why in News?

Pakistan and Afghanistan have entered a sharp new phase of hostilities after Pakistan carried out airstrikes in Kabul and other provinces following a cross-border attack on its troops. Pakistan’s Defence Minister described the situation as an “open war” with the Taliban-led Afghan government.

Islamabad has accused Kabul of sheltering militant groups responsible for attacks inside Pakistan. However, the roots of tension between the two neighbours go far deeper, stretching back to 1947 and shaped by history, geopolitics, and unresolved border disputes.

Background and Context

Since Pakistan’s creation in 1947, relations with Afghanistan have been marked by distrust and confrontation.

Major historical phases include:

• Soviet intervention in Afghanistan (1979–1989)
• US-led intervention (2001–2021)
• Taliban’s return to power in 2021

Throughout these upheavals, Pakistan has played a significant role in Afghan political developments, often backing resistance groups or the Taliban. Despite this involvement, bilateral mistrust has persisted.

Regime Changes in Afghanistan: A Turbulent Political History

End of Monarchy and Communist Rule (1973–1989)

Afghanistan’s monarchy ended in 1973. A nationalist regime was followed by communist rule backed by the Soviet Union.

In 1979, the Soviet Union intervened militarily. Pakistan supported Afghan Mujahideen factions during this period.

Najibullah and Collapse (1989–1992)

After Soviet withdrawal, President Najibullah attempted to stabilise the country. His government collapsed in 1992, triggering civil war.

Civil War and First Taliban Rule (1992–2001)

The Taliban emerged in 1994 and captured Kabul in 1996. Pakistan was one of the few countries to recognise the Taliban regime.

US Intervention and Islamic Republic (2001–2021)

Following the September 11 attacks, the United States invaded Afghanistan, overthrowing the Taliban.

A new Islamic Republic was established but struggled with insurgency and corruption.

Taliban Return (2021)

After the US withdrawal in August 2021, the Taliban regained full control. Pakistan initially welcomed the development, expecting strategic alignment.

However, tensions resurfaced as cross-border militancy continued.

Persistent Fault Lines in Pakistan–Afghanistan Relations

1. The Durand Line Dispute

The most enduring source of tension is the Durand Line.

The Durand Line: A Historical Flashpoint

The 2,640-km Durand Line was drawn in 1893 by Sir Mortimer Durand between British India and Afghanistan.

• It split Pashtun tribal lands.
• Initially meant as a boundary of influence, not a permanent international border.
• Pakistan inherited it in 1947 as its western boundary.

Afghanistan has consistently refused to formally recognise the Durand Line as an international border.

It even opposed Pakistan’s admission to the United Nations in 1947 on this issue.

In 2018, Afghanistan objected when Pakistan merged its Tribal Areas into Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, reiterating its rejection of the border’s finality.

The unresolved border dispute fuels recurring clashes and accusations of cross-border militant movement.

2. Cross-Border Militancy

Pakistan accuses the Taliban government of sheltering anti-Pakistan militant groups.

Afghanistan, in turn, accuses Pakistan of interference in its internal affairs.

Militant safe havens and border management remain major security flashpoints.

3. Trade and Transit as Strategic Leverage

Afghanistan is landlocked and dependent on transit routes through Pakistan.

The Karachi port route is economically vital.

Disputes have arisen over:

• Transit permissions
• Restrictions on goods
• Access for Indian exports via Wagah

Afghanistan views such restrictions as political coercion.

4. The India Factor

India’s developmental presence in Afghanistan — infrastructure, education, and humanitarian assistance — has shaped Pakistan’s security concerns.

Pakistan fears strategic encirclement by India and Afghanistan.

Recent Taliban outreach to India has heightened Islamabad’s suspicion.

5. Mutual Resentment

Afghans often resent Pakistan’s historical involvement in their domestic politics.

Pakistan argues it has borne heavy costs:

• Hosting millions of Afghan refugees
• Supporting resistance movements during Soviet and US interventions

This mutual distrust continues to define bilateral ties.

Strategic and Regional Implications

1. Regional Instability: Escalation risks destabilising South and Central Asia.
2. Militant Resurgence: Open hostilities could create space for extremist groups.
3. Impact on India: India’s security and connectivity projects may be affected.
4. Refugee Flows: Renewed violence may trigger displacement.
5. Great Power Interests: China, Russia, Iran, and the US closely monitor developments due to regional stakes.

Significance for India

• Stability in Afghanistan is critical for regional connectivity initiatives.
• India must balance humanitarian engagement with strategic caution.
• Escalation may affect projects linking South Asia to Central Asia.

India traditionally supports an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned peace process while avoiding direct involvement in internal conflicts.