Shapes Our Lives
Shapes Our Lives: Pakistan has long feared danger on two borders. Since its early years, it has tried to avoid threats from India and Afghanistan at the same time. This policy began because both borders were disputed. India was hostile over Kashmir, and Afghanistan did not accept the Durand Line.
Geographic Pressure
Geography made Pakistan’s situation difficult, so its leaders aimed to keep one border calm. They believed the country could not fight on two sides at once. In the 1980s, during the US-led war in Afghanistan, Pakistan worked to avoid tension with India. After 9/11, Pakistan again faced pressure when India moved its troops in 2002, but US mediation reduced the danger and helped restart talks.
Today Pakistan faces three challenges at once. India continues to issue threats on the eastern border. On the western border, Pakistan and Afghanistan clash, and Pakistan accuses both Kabul and New Delhi of supporting attacks inside Pakistan. At home, militant violence is rising and damaging stability.
Western Strain
This three-front pressure is new for Pakistan. One positive sign is improved ties with Iran, which helps both countries manage their shared border after their brief missile strikes in early 2024.
Pakistan’s relations with Afghanistan are at a low point. The Taliban refuse to act against the TTP, which attacks Pakistan from Afghan territory. After many failed talks, Pakistan adopted a tougher stance. In October, deadly clashes broke out. Pakistan launched air strikes in Afghanistan, and Afghan forces hit Pakistani border posts. Mediation by Qatar and Turkiye produced a ceasefire, but later talks failed because the Taliban would not give a written promise to stop TTP attacks. The border remains closed, and trade has stopped.
Dual Vigilance
Pakistan now relies on military pressure to influence the Taliban. This approach may deter Kabul but also hurts Pakistan’s economy and strains its resources. Meanwhile, Pakistan must stay alert on the eastern border. Indian leaders continue to make threatening statements, creating risks of miscalculation. Pakistan sees India as the bigger threat and cannot lower its guard.
Internal Threats
Pakistan may not reduce tensions with India or Afghanistan soon, but it can improve security at home. Two provinces face insurgencies, and terrorists continue to strike across the country. Despite some gains, the threat is rising and could make 2025 the deadliest year in a decade.
Fixing Security
Pakistan needs a stronger counterterrorism plan. It must tighten border controls and end corruption that helps militants move. It should use different strategies in Balochistan and KP. In Balochistan, the government must address public grievances while enforcing security. In KP, leaders must work together across party lines to gain community support.
Pakistan must defeat internal militancy because it cannot handle pressure on three fronts for long.
Published in Dawn, 1st December 2025
