ISLAMABAD — Amid rising tensions along the Pakistan Afghanistan border, experts are urging Islamabad to reconsider its current policies, which have affected cross-border trade and complicated relations with Afghan nationals living in Pakistan.
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A recent report by the International Crisis Group (ICG) highlighted a surge in violence along the border, primarily driven by the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). According to Samina Ahmed, ICG’s Senior Project Director for South Asia, 2025 was one of the deadliest years in recent memory for Pakistan’s border regions. Islamabad’s recent cross-border operations underscore the risk of escalation, with potential retaliatory strikes threatening regional stability.
The report emphasizes that Pakistan’s counter-insurgency strategy could be more effective by consulting local communities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, improving coordination between provincial law enforcement and the military, and integrating non-military measures alongside diplomatic initiatives. Experts stress the importance of dialogue with Kabul, facilitated by neutral partners such as Türkiye, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, to curb TTP activities and reduce the likelihood of renewed conflict.
Ahmed also highlighted the humanitarian impact of border closures and deportations of Afghan nationals. While Pakistan has the right to regulate entry, she urged Islamabad to expedite visas for Afghan residents, particularly women, activists, journalists, and students, and to collaborate with UN agencies and NGOs to provide education, healthcare, and economic support. Western governments are encouraged to resettle approved refugees promptly, prioritizing the most vulnerable.
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The ICG report concludes that a nuanced policy combining diplomacy, incentives, and targeted security measures would better serve Pakistan’s interests than relying solely on military action. Strengthening provincial policing, ensuring responsive governance, and using friendly countries as mediators are seen as key steps to de-escalate tensions and foster long-term stability along the frontier.