Abstract

This paper delves into the intricate dynamics of Afghanistan's relationship with Pakistan, especially in light of a potential Taliban resurgence and its repercussions on Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The TTP's strategic realignment, transitioning from collaboration with the Afghan Taliban to destabilizing Pakistan, is examined through a qualitative approach rooted in structural realism. The analysis contextualizes Afghanistan-Pakistan relations historically, considering security, and geopolitical implications. It scrutinizes the TTP's resurgence, attributing causes to internal shifts, external support, and regional changes. The study explores avenues for stability in the region, emphasizing economic cooperation's potential. Insights are drawn on how Pakistan tackles the TTP resurgence, encompassing foreign relations, economic resources, and internal politics. While structural realism sheds light on power dynamics, the paper underscores the imperative to manage Afghanistan-Pakistan relations to avert further regional upheaval.

Key Words

Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, Afghan Taliban, CPEC, Power Dynamics, Cease-fire Diplomacy, Militant Groups, Geopolitical Dynamics, Regional Security, Proxy Conflicts

Introduction

In the summer of 2021, the Afghan Taliban managed to seize control of parts of Afghanistan. This marked their comeback to power after fighting for twenty years. Although nearly the world has been fascinated by this transformation that makes another story was quietly narrated in the background (Chaudhuri & Shende, 2020). The emergence of the Pakistani Taliban which is called Tehrik i Taliban Pakistan. This revival that was although initially emerged by the Afghan Taliban's triumph, constitutes a continuous danger to Pakistan's security constraints (Siddiqui, 2020).

As an alliance of Islamist groups founded in the tribal region of Pakistan, TTP has experienced a tempestuous journey throughout its existence. It has faced governmental restrictions and conflicts. Fought for its survival. However, as a survival strategy, the group relocated to Afghanistan. Became intertwined with the Afghan Taliban insurgency. With the Afghan Taliban regaining power TTP has seized this opportunity to rejuvenate itself by acquiring weaponry and bringing its fighters back into Pakistan. Now it is refocusing on its war against the state. In years TTP has undergone transformations and strategic adjustments. It has merged with groups centralized its organizational structure intensified its operational activities and expanded its media presence. Additionally, it has moved away from attacks, on civilians through suicide bombings. Adopted a more localized approach. Consequently, it seems likely that the TTP will imitate the actions of its counterparts and potentially gain control over areas, in Pakistan's regions (Khurasani, 2022).

The connection, between Pakistan and Afghanistan has a history characterized by an interplay of concerns regarding sovereignty, security interests, geopolitical dynamics, cross-border connections, and trade partnerships (Adeeb & Shabbir, 2018). Pakistan's role, in the peace process in Afghanistan, gained attention during the presidency of former U.S. President Donald Trump. He sought Pakistan’s help in bringing the Taliban to the negotiating table in 2018Biddle (Biddle, 2019). However, there is a lot of debate surrounding Pakistan’s involvement in the conflict. Though Pakistan has been a shelter and benefactor to the Taliban over several years, it is in fact Afghanistan itself--its people-that have paid most dearly for their actions (Mir, 2023). But many Afghans blame Pakistan for permitting such turbulence to occur and question whether or not that country would be willing to pressure the Taliban into a ceasefire. Especially because the situation is so complicated, a great many people, including former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, consider obtaining peace between Pakistan and Afghanistan to be even more important than facing off with the Taliban. A retrospect on Afghanistan-Pakistan relations can discern these common motifs: issues of sovereignty, worries about security, geopolitical considerations, international interactions as well as economic links and inter-regionalism. These variables have had an enormous impact on how they've interacted throughout the past seventy years, and continue to affect regional stability today (Idrees & Naazer, 2022). With foreign soldiers leaving Afghanistan and the prospect of a settlement fading it becomes ever more crucial for Afghans to understand how to resolve these tensions, by making use of some existing connections in favorable ways which would lead to peace within Afghanistan. This will make any outbreak of proxy conflict in this region less likely (Sakhi, 2022).

In Afghanistan, efforts to resolve the conflict have centered primarily upon the issues and active involvement of three actors: the Afghan government, the Taliban and the United States. However, beneath the landscape, there exists a key player that often goes unnoticed; Pakistan. Pakistan, located along the Afghan border played a less conspicuous role in the war (Ehsan & Bilal, 2022). The Afghan Taliban takeover of Afghanistan affords the Pakistani jihadists a sense of tremendous authority and an edge in strategy. With the Taliban in control and sympathetic to the TTP cause this presents an unprecedented opportunity for the Pakistani Taliban to pursue its objectives with substantial support (Wani, 2022).

Considering the existing challenges and potential opportunities this research paper aims to analyze the underlying tensions in the Afghanistan-Pakistan relationship and identify areas for collaboration amidst future scenarios. This study used a qualitative research methodology, analyzing the data using the structural realism theory. With this method, we explore the complex interactions between variables to gain a thorough grasp of the dynamics of the study subject. To facilitate this study comprehensive interviews were conducted with leaders, military personnel, civil society representatives, journalists, analysts, and international officials from both Afghanistan and Pakistan. Additionally, an extensive review of the literature concerning their relationship was undertaken to understand its impact on regional stability as well as its influence on populations residing near the border.

Comprehending how the relationship between the Afghan Taliban and TTP evolves is crucial for policymakers and analysts alike. This association carries implications not only for Pakistan’s security but also for overall stability, in the region. Understanding this connection is crucial, to develop approaches for dealing with the changing security situation, in South Asia, which is characterized by a variety of challenges that transcend national borders.

The study consists of two parts clarifying the controversies regarding the current government’s anti-illegals campaign and repatriation to Afghanistan. It involves section one which includes the introduction, historical background, statement of the problem, research question, research objectives, significance of the study, methodology, literature review, literature gap, and theory foundation. The paper demonstrates an increasing number of terrorist attacks, especially suicide bombings, using the statistical evidence that has been accumulated after the Taliban's return to Kabul. The second section gives a more detailed analysis of multifaceted issues within the Afghanistan- Pakistan nexus. The latter begins by analyzing the precise coordination between Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan and Afghanistan's Taliban following that organization’s seizure of control in 2021. The strategic developments covered, such as the publication of key TTP figures and the group's shift in focus toward Pakistan are examined. These show how interdependent each body is upon one another. Next, the focus shifts to economic factors which stress that bilateral cooperation between Afghanistan and Pakistan has an opportunity for a leap forward. It in-depth examines the potential, trade opportunities, and China-Pakistan Economic Corridor to illustrate which economic mast or pill is holding up the stability of peace in the region. The section also offers an even-handed assessment of how Pakistan has reacted to the rising suggestion that diplomatic and economic factors, as well as internal political considerations, are influencing her response. This interaction of various factors provides a comprehensive picture of the Afghanistan-Pakistan relationship over time and in its current state.

Statement of Problem

The Taliban's overthrow in Kabul, the TTP was the first militant, within hours after organization to formally celebrate the coup. The Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), located in Islamabad, reports that there were at least 294 militant strikes in Pakistan—a 56 percent rise from previous years. The resurgence of the Tehrik I Taliban Pakistan (TTP) after the Afghan Taliban regained power poses a security challenge, for Pakistan. This revival, characterized by increased strength and a shift in focus toward Pakistan jeopardizes stability. This is a particularly difficult problem because the question of sovereignty and security interests creates an intricate geopolitical relationship between Afghanistan and Pakistan. The main issue lies in finding ways to manage these tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan while countering the TTP's resurgence. The goal is to achieve lasting stability and prevent further conflicts carried out through proxies.

Research Questions

1. How did TTP manage to resurge after the Afghan Taliban's return to power?

2. How can the complexities in Afghanistan and Pakistan relations be addressed to promote enduring stability in the two states?

3. How should Pakistan manage to deal with the threats coming from TTP?

Research Objectives

1. To analyze factors that contribute to the resurgence of TTP after the Afghan Taliban's return, such as changes within the organization support they receive and regional dynamics, at play.

2. To evaluate the dynamics, between Afghanistan and Pakistan suggest strategies for establishing long-term stability in the region and preventing conflicts through proxies.

3. To explore the obstacles faced by Pakistan’s government and military in tackling the growth and territorial ambitions of TTP. Analyze their efforts to mitigate this security threat.

Significance of Study

1. This research offers insights into why we're witnessing a resurgence of TTP following the return of the Afghan Taliban contributing to our understanding of how regional security dynamics are evolving.

2. The article sheds light on the factors influencing Afghanistan-Pakistan relations enhancing our comprehension of their impact, on the region.

3. The study investigates the difficulties Pakistan faces in countering the growth of the TTP.

4. This paper will be valuable for teachers, students, and policymakers and also a valuable addition to existing literature.

Research Methodology

The research is conducted by qualitative methodology. For this study, data was gathered from a variety of reliable secondary sources, including online interviews, articles, academic journals, books, newspapers, and relevant online resources. In response to the emergence of this new security threat following the Afghan Taliban's return and restoration to its position as leader, qualitative research was employed in sub-summing all the factors that may eventually lead us back into such a frightening vicious cycle. For this kind of research, methodology tends to be explanatory. Qualitative methods are also adopted in order to deepen the understanding of what is going on with security both inside Pakistan and throughout the Afghanistan-Pakistan region. Through using key developments and historical complexities to consider the TTP's resurgence and its implications for the safety of this region, this study casts light on both what has happened here in recent years as well as why it is happening. The analysis considered a large number of sources that include interviews that are qualitative and expert opinions as well as breaches of security, territorial control and other relevant variables, such as quantitative data. The people who selected these data have been careful to select them because they are accurate and reliable. The study methodology that encompasses both qualitative and quantitative approaches aims to provide useful insights into the dynamics of TTP's resurgence and how the Pakistan government and its military establishments dealt with this security challenge.

Literature Review

Most of the academic research focused on the relationship between Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban. There have been a lot of people who have written about this. On future prospects, there were some insights. Dr. Farhan Zahid’s article, "Dealing with TTP and IS-K after the US withdrawal from Afghanistan: Challenges, Prospects, and Policy Options for Pakistan" is an analysis of this changing situation that highlights how Pakistan can deal with security threats mostly being posed by TTP and IS-K fighters. This essay provides a historical context that covers the period from post-US withdrawal times to President Obama's 2009 Afghanistan plan as far as Afghanistan is concerned and also states the Pakistani standpoint in decision-making in the region. The strategy was to counteract the Taliban's increasing power through the deployment of troops. Secondly, it examines the Donald Trump administration's pullout of soldiers who later signed the Doha peace agreement in February 2020 which paved the way for the United States exit from Afghanistan. To know what problems Pakistan currently faces, one has to understand this information well.  A key focus of the article centers on the release of TTP prisoners by the Taliban after their takeover of Afghanistan in 2021. This development raises concerns for Pakistan as it potentially strengthens TTP and poses a security risk. The author underscores that despite expectations for action against TTP the Afghan Taliban appears inclined, towards facilitating rather than mediating their activities. Pakistan finds itself with options, in seeking support from the Afghan Taliban due to their lack of action regarding the TTP. The article delves into the history of Pakistan’s relationship, with the Afghan Taliban. Despite accusations of supporting the Taliban the article argues that Pakistan's influence over the Afghan Taliban is now limited since their return, to power. The relationship is further complicated by the fact that the Afghan Taliban are independent and do not align with demands. One example of this is their refusal to hand over militants who have sought refuge in Afghanistan despite Pakistan's requests. The essay also explores the relationship between the Afghan Taliban and the TTP, which is fueled by shared ideologies, ethnic ties, and historical connections. However, concerns arise as the TTP has become more active since Kabul fell and the Afghan Taliban's role in facilitating than mediating with them raises security concerns for Pakistan. The article emphasizes that Pakistan faces challenges following the withdrawal of U.S. Forces from Afghanistan including dealing with TTP prisoners understanding where the Afghan Taliban stands regarding TTP and potential security implications for Pakistan. With no U.S. Presence, in Afghanistan Pakistan's counterterrorism efforts are significantly restricted, including drone strikes. Furthermore, it suggests that Pakistan may have to address issues related to TTP and associated terrorist networks (Zahid, 2023).

Attaullah Jan and Fakhr ul Islam’s article, titled 'The Rise of Taliban in Afghanistan in 2021 and Its Security Implications for Pakistan,' examines the security consequences for Pakistan in light of the Taliban's resurgence. They delve into the array of challenges that Pakistan confronts, with an emphasis, on the Tehrik i Taliban Pakistan. The TTP has been launching attacks, on security forces and civilians in Afghanistan leading to an increase in incidents and casualties. It's surprising that with the resurgence of the Afghan Taliban, the TTP's threats haven't diminished; instead, they have become stronger. This research investigation sheds light on the activities of groups along the shared border of Afghanistan and Pakistan. The essays also explore how Pakistani politicians who supported the return of the Taliban to power may have emboldened radicals in the region creating a crisis situation for Pakistan's security. The article provides context on Pakistanis' efforts to engage in negotiations with groups with a focus on their interactions, with the TTP. Peace talks, which commenced in October 2021, have received criticism and caused debate in society. In meetings, the focus is, on deciding whether to grant pardons to those affiliated with the TTP as a reward for surrendering their weapons and adhering to the Pakistan charter. This is a topic that stirs emotions. The article delves into the challenges associated with this peace process, including the TTP's demand to reinstate the erstwhile FATA status. It also highlights the growing threat posed by groups like the Balochistan Liberation Army and the Islamic State of Khorasan which have targeted interests and construction projects in Pakistan leading to security concerns. Additionally, this article examines efforts to resolve border disputes, related to the Durand Line. The Taliban's refusal to recognize this boundary as a country border has sparked increasing tensions. Raised fears, about consequences (Jan & Islam, 2022).

The article titled 'Examining the Changing Relationship, between Afghanistan and Pakistan; A Critical Analysis,' written by Asad Altaf, Zahid Mehmood Zahid and Tahir Abbas Sial delves into the connections between Pakistan and Afghanistan in light of the resurgence of the Taliban in Afghanistan. The authors explore the nature of challenges and opportunities that have emerged for Pakistan due to the leadership transition in Afghanistan. They emphasize that despite animosity both countries rely on each other for support. The article suggests that Pakistan should take a comprehensive approach to address the changing situation in Afghanistan. It emphasizes the importance of cooperation with countries like China, Russia, Iran, and Central Asian states. The authors argue that Pakistan's stability is closely tied to Afghanistan's stability; therefore Pakistan must manage any consequences while leveraging opportunities arising from the Taliban rule. They also emphasize the significance of platforms such as the Organization of Islamic Cooperation in addressing challenges posed by the situation. The article highlights the need for Pakistan to adopt a diplomatic approach when dealing with unfolding events, in Afghanistan while considering both challenges and opportunities presented by the Taliban's return to power (Altaf, Zahid, & Sial, 2022).

Y.Y Mehlman, M.A. James, and H. Hess in their article, titled 'A Comparative Analysis of the Afghan Taliban and the Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan Ideologies Following the 2021 Takeover of Afghanistan' explores the comparative analysis of the ideologies, strategies, tactics, accounting methods, recruitment approaches, and target preferences in the case of the Afghan Taliban versus Tehrik e Taliban Pakistan in Afghanistan before and at the time they were installed as leaders. The iSTART model is applied to understand their religious basis, mission, and practice operations. Defensive Jihad – is the approach the Afghan Taliban took under which it sought to restore peace in Afghanistan through Sharia Law and against foreign troops. However, TTP attacks the Pakistani state arguing for the ideology of Jihadism stressing autonomy. While suicide bombing is the key method of the Afghan Taliban and TTP; subtleties are distinguishable. Because it is besieged by the military, the Taliban in Afghanistan use specific tactics such as disguise and guerilla warfare. TTP has been using mountains as hideouts and employing various techniques including gas attacks, using trucks full of explosives, and assassination attempts. There is plenty of money available for the Afghan Taliban coming from various sources such as taxes, illegal minerals, and international sponsors. Unlike its contemporary, TTP has no fixed source of finance apart from irregular aid from India and al Qaeda (Mehlman & Hess, 2022).

Saira Akram and Anum Riaz in their article, titled, 'Pak-Afghan Relations: A Case of Taliban Regime Past and Present,' explores the prospect of improving economic relations, commerce, and infrastructural development from Pakistan towards Afghanistan. This partnership includes energy-based ventures, trade ways, and economic beneficial initiatives for both countries' economies. Furthermore, collaboration towards fighting terrorism and extremism through information sharing and synchronized operations in a bid to improve regional security is focused on. Nevertheless, there are some obstacles to this partnership. However, this persistent militancy and terrorism in both countries strains their relations too especially when they accuse each other of not recognizing legitimate Pakistani support for Taliban elements or the unresolved international borders. Management concerns arise from Afghan refugees in Pakistan while political instabilities and governance problems affect coherent foreign policy. The relationship gets even more messed up when other global superpowers come in, and Afghanistan's goal for security and Pakistan's mission of control clash (Akram & Riaz, Pak-Afghan Relations: A Case of Taliban Regime Past and Present, 2023).

Scholars have conducted research into the connection, between the Afghan Taliban and the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan examining the implications in light of developments and shifts, in the geopolitical environment. Given the changing nature of this relationship, it is crucial to refine the data and provide updated insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by Pakistan. This research delved into the policies and actions taken by Pakistan, the Afghan Taliban, and TTP to gain an understanding of how these groups interact with each other.

Literature Gap

Previous studies, on the connection between the Afghan Taliban and Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan have mainly focused on context and broader geopolitical aspects offering insights into the background of this complex relationship. However, there is a gap in research when it comes to understanding developments and policy factors that have emerged as dynamics evolve. This research aims to fill this gap by providing an up-to-date and nuanced analysis. While there is some recognition of efforts made by the Afghan Taliban to counter-terrorism and cross-border attacks comprehensive research is lacking regarding their nature, effectiveness within Afghanistan itself, and their impact, on the country's security landscape. The increasing frequency and various types of attacks originating from Afghanistan targeting Pakistan's stability require analysis. Similarly important is examining how Pakistan responds to these threats. It is crucial to analyze Pakistan's strategies in countering terrorism including their achievements, setbacks, and adaptations, in the face of security challenges. This study aims to explore Pakistan's approaches towards Afghanistan. How they have shaped the present security landscape. By examining factors we can gain insight into the origins of the relationship, between the Afghan Taliban and TTP. The study will provide a comprehensive understanding of the diplomatic and security dimensions of the increasingly tense bilateral relationship between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban. Its objective is to foster a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities Pakistan faces in this intricate relationship by offering current and all-encompassing insights.

Theoretical Framework

Structural Realism offers valuable insights into international politics by focusing on the anarchic nature of the global system and the distribution of power among states. The international system operates without authority, which means that countries act in their self-interests primarily driven by security and survival concerns. Countries aim to increase their power compared to others with power being the currency, in relations. To understand how the TTP regained strength it is important to analyze how power dynamics in the region between Afghanistan and Pakistan influenced their actions. The return of the Afghan Taliban to power represents a shift in power hierarchy potentially providing an opportunity for increased collaboration between TTP and Afghan Taliban. Evaluating Pakistan's security situation, from a perspective reveals that states prioritize their security within a given system. Therefore one can view governments' response to TTPs resurgence, including operations and policy adjustments as decisions aimed at enhancing its security while adapting to changing power dynamics. The relationship, between Afghanistan and Pakistan throughout history has been characterized by a mix of concerns for independence and geopolitical interests aligning with the principles of realism. This perspective analyzes how past events have shaped Pakistan's behavior in its dealings, with the TTP resurgence while also taking into account Afghan resilience within the region. Structural realism additionally assists us examine stabilization in the Afghanistan-Pakistan region since different countries react to potential threats and changes in the relationship of power, making stability an integral contention. This study examines how the actions and reactions of the TTP, as Pakistan and Afghanistan are influenced by their perceptions of power and security thereby affecting regional stability at large. The concept of Structural Realism offers a perspective to comprehend the resurgence of the TTP and its consequences, for Pakistan. 

TTP's Alignment with the Afghan Taliban's Rule

How did the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan recoup after Afghanistan's Taliban returned to power? These were several strategic developments. The fall of Afghanistan to the Taliban in 2021 created a friendly regime open to the TTP but on Pakistan's western border. In other words, the TTP could keep its fear of Afghan military penetration or counter-insurgency operations to a minimum. In the past, it was U.S.-led coalition attacks and military operations by Afghanistan's government that posed a great threat to TTP in their border areas. After the Taliban took over Afghanistan, there was no longer any threat of such operations and the TTP could plan its activities in relative safety. Together, the lack of foreign forces in Afghanistan and the anti-Taliban government provided space for more free maneuvering. These operational freedoms allowed TTP members to cross the border, make defined attacks across the line, and even seek refuge in Afghanistan without having as much difficulty getting around. The early sympathy the Afghan Taliban had for TTP not only gave it a haven, but also an official stamp of approval. Though Afghanistan's Taliban leadership publicly condemns its decision, there are ideological and historical ties between the Afghan Taliban and TTP. This results in the tacit encouragement of some foot soldiers to join a war against Pakistan (Aimal, 2021).

Since then, U.S.-led forces and Afghan security agencies have held numerous TTP members in custody during the period of U.S. military involvement in Afghanistan as well as after former Afghan president Hamid Karzai’s government took power. They were all thrown into different prisons throughout Kabul, as well as some of the senior commanders. In 2021, when the Taliban rapidly overran Afghanistan, one of their targets was prison. Prisons in which TTP members were detained also fell into Taliban hands. To help its fellow terrorists in the TTP consolidate their position and affirm their authority, The Taliban permitted them to release those detainees. The release of TTP members from the Afghan prisons served a strategic purpose for them. Not only did it make more seasoned militants available to the TPP, but these senior commanders could provide leadership and organizational experience. Those who were released include such important men as Maulawi Faqir Muhammad Bajauri, the TTP's former deputy emir, and their spokesman Mufti Khalid Bulti. The two were pivotal figures in the TTP's earlier endeavors and offered commanding leadership as soon as they got out. These former TTP members, battle-hardened and well-practiced in insurgency methods also furthered the operational capabilities of TTG. Because of this, the TTP was better placed in terms of carrying out attacks or executing its mission in Pakistan because it had a large number of fighters that were highly competent. The ousting of TTP extremists meant that both Pakistani government Tehrik-e-Taliban and Afghan Taliban shared a common interest. It became a starting point for a collaboration between these two players adding up to the already existing narrative about their assistance to each other and mutually beneficial objectives (Kaura, 2022).

The TTP disclosed the Taliban's formal restoration to leadership. The occasion also featured a reaffirmation of loyalty to Taliban Emir Hibatullah Akhundzada by TTP emir Mufti Noor Wali Mehsud. That is why they publicly declared their loyalty to the Taliban, which made it appear that many different groups formed one movement responsible for most operations within the greater insurgency. The subsequent set of messages underscored the strength and coherence of Islamist militant factions. The monumental significance of this event is best understood when one takes into account the endemic ideological camaraderie and cooperation in establishing Islamic government among all jihadists pronounced by TTP as occasioned by the Taliban's coming back. This was done in order to support the Taliban while at the same time assisting TTP not to be overpowered. As an illustration, Mehsud clarified that he supported the Taliban fully and completely in Afghanistan. However, such an embodiment is more than symbolic; illustrates actual cooperation and coordination between these two parties towards achieving their common objective. In the opinion of the TTP leadership, they would fight aggressively and maintain their dominance among the Taliban. The reason why they did not agree to this was that it showed how the TTP acknowledged the Taliban's control of Afghanistan as an advantage to its operations. This oath was premised on two decades of cooperation between TTP and the Taliban of Afghanistan. This made them gain a political structure that brought strong ties between them because both groups emerged from one Afghan struggle against US and coalition forces. The result was that the TTP got a fillip, as well as majorly enhanced its reputation among Afghan Islamist insurgents. This gave the impression that TTP was a dedicated element of the larger jihadist movement, receiving backing and recruiting sympathizers (Siddique, 2023).

As the Taliban took over Afghanistan and was friendlier to the TTP, it naturally readjusted its strategic position. After the abandonment of military operations in Afghanistan, TTP's focus shifted to its main enemy--the Pakistani state. The TTP held peace talks with the Pakistani government in Kabul. In these negotiations, the TTP crystallized its main positions, namely that autonomy must be restored to the tribal belt and that Sharia law is in effect. Such demands reflect the group's localized themes of concern in Pakistan. However, for the TTP to set importance on a semiautonomous tribal belt and Sharia suggested that it had gone from regional concerns toward more local ones. Such a focus revealed the TTP's willingness to bring redress within Pakistan, in specific tribal areas abutting Afghanistan. The Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan gave the TTP confidence in its ability to pursue its agenda against state authority. With no serious threats or constraints in Afghan territory, the TTP could carry out its plans to attack Pakistani security forces. They connected their war against the Pakistani state to similar arguments employed by Taliban forces in Afghanistan as a way of humanizing themselves. For TTP militants, tribal and ideological identities born from over two decades of insurgency developed a commonality between them that engendered shared aims and solidarity. In addition, the TTP publicly articulated its goals during peace talks. The group made it obvious that their concerns were no longer war in Afghanistan but accounted for what they believed was wrong within Pakistan. This public posture expressed the group's strategic position (PTI, 2023).

Economy Anchors Stability

The economic aspect of Afghanistan-Pakistan relations seems to have extreme potential for changing the nature of these ties. Of course, historical and security problems have frequently defined the story. However, putting economic cooperation at the center stage can become a catalyst for long-term stability. According to a study by the U.S. Trade Development Authority of Pakistan, there is substantial untapped economic potential between these two countries at present. Our current bilateral trade in cereals, vegetables, and pharmaceuticals is still just the tip of the iceberg. The study points to the possibility of Afghanistan being a virgin market worth several billion US dollars for Pakistani products, and overall trade figures could top $20 billion. Greater economic cooperation between Afghanistan and Pakistan will be of mutual benefit to both countries (Khan, 2023). Stable trade and joint economic activities promote stability in the overall economy, which fosters political stability. The two nations can apply economic incentives by focusing on the positive cycle that stability leads to prosperity and vice versa (Akram, Pak Afghan Economic Ties: Opening New Vistas, 2022). The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor has been billed as a flagship project to boost connectivity and economic development. Expanding CPEC into Afghanistan offers the opportunity to connect the whole region. CPEC contains the proposed railway-road networks as well as infrastructure facilities, which will help develop a channel to support even more trade between Islamabad and Kabul. The extension is not only a way of facilitating connections with the Central Asian Republics but will also serve to rectify infrastructure deficiencies essential for economic development in Afghanistan. Looking for products to export and import is an important element in diversifying economic ties. Products with strategies for exporting to Afghanistan that have been selected by Pakistani trade authorities include road tractors, medicaments, motorcycles, black tea, and surgical instruments. Likewise, the products from Afghanistan that are most in demand here--figs and grapes as foodstuffs plus gemstones--demonstrate how a comprehensive exchange relationship might look. This reduces reliance on specific industries and creates a stronger economic connection. This year is an opportunity for Afghan reconstruction and rehabilitation, hence enabling Pakistani companies to regain their strength. Pakistan plays a key role in this process as it can deliver such essential recovery goods as cement and iron steel bars. Due to its position on the Afghan border, KP acts as a crucial maritime hub, therefore enhancing local businesses in KP can help unite both nations more closely (Kuo, 2023).

TTP's Resurgence and Pakistani Response

Pakistani politicians who have been denying the Taliban for years are referring to them in full terms, even admitting they back and support TTP. The change in attitude reflects a changing recognition of the magnitude of the danger. However, Pakistani officials would like to come up with a tacit agreement on cessation of fire with the Taliban chiefly through diplomatic channels. What adds more immediacy is that given Pakistan's financial situation, it has very few military options at its disposal now. One possible reprisal of crossed-border airstrikes against TTP is being considered, but such strikes may not be very effective on account of cost constraints and the danger that domestic abuse might get out of hand. Besides this, it is reported these days that Taliban militants have defected to join forces with TTP. These terrorists are viewed by some members of Pakistan's political circles as a reminder that organized crime and highly rated military officers have joined forces to conspire or attempt to crush Imran Khan on his way back, while at the same time smoothing away obstacles facing American assistance. The facts hint at ideological clashes among various leaders from different parties with their own ideas about how best (Anwar, Salikuddin, & Watkins, 2023).

At the time of Kabul's collapse, the primary concern among members of leadership circles was the likelihood that the TTP would transform into an operative of hostile intelligence services. Against the insurgent group, Pakistan has been using this logic in order in order to establish the otherness crucial in order to separate its ideology and goals following the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan. The conclusion at the time was that criminal organizations in Afghanistan would cease to have the ability to fight if the US withdrew. They argued that the TTP would therefore lose any ideological validity it had gained from fighting the Pakistani government when that transpired. This was due to the fact that strategists found their argument to be legitimate because the TTP was formed in Pakistan and supported the US and its coalition partners against the Taliban in Afghanistan (Firdous, 2023).

On December 13th, 2023, General Asim Munir, in Washington on a diplomatic mission, already asked US Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld to help out with this fight against what is purported to be terrorist safe houses within Afghanistan. Munir is working to convince the US security and military, not only Pakistan but all of the world community person diplomacy lies battling it out with its fists up. Still, Afghan Taliban officials have reveres ceding the allegations and continued to argue that it was not they who perpetrated such attacks, and they would never permit such violations from within their borders against any nation. Secondly, Pakistani officials that since the return of Afghan Taliban influence so far this year, the TTP militancy has heated up greatly. Before ever meeting with United States officials or ambassadors General Asim met in Islamabad with Thomas West, whose diplomatic post was aimed at promoting American interests. They went over several occasions in Afghanistan together. In talks between the nations, military action directly targeting the Terrorist Hideouts and eradicating a number of transnational security risks remained an option discussed in passing from time to time offstage; based on exchanges so far this appears unlikely. Moreover, reaching a compromise through diplomatic channels remains a one-sided focus these days (Kugelman, 2023). The US government provided funding for law enforcement and judicial capacity-building activities in Pakistan. The US position has been backed up by its risk assessment, which states that Al Qaeda is at the weakest point in history and IS-K isolates itself from Islamic society as soon as it leaves Afghanistan regardless of how hard a fight they can put up against Taliban efforts to deal with terrorism. Previously seen as a proxy for Pakistani forces, the Afghan Taliban are now asserting independence, and Pakistan has begun expelling Afghan refugees to force the Taliban to comply with Islamabad's security demands. Some Pakistani officials are calling for unilateral military action against alleged TTP sanctuaries inside Afghanistan. The growing developments in the region reflect the challenges and challenges of combating cross-border terrorism and ensuring regional stability (Dawi, 2023).

Findings

? The absence of foreign forces and a sympathetic Afghan Taliban regime created a stable environment for the TTP to regroup, plan sports, and perform with reduced worry about navy interventions. This alignment allowed TTP individuals to move freely throughout the border, conduct pass-border assaults, and locate shelter in Afghanistan, showcasing a cooperative courting among the 2 corporations.

? The release of TTP members, from Afghan prisons beneath Taliban control had strategic implications, growing the TTP's pool of experienced militants and reintegrating senior commanders. The TTP's alignment with the Afghan Taliban is underscored by way of the facilitation of these releases, symbolizing shared records and commitment to mutual aid.

? The TTP's public birthday party and renewed pledge of allegiance to the Afghan Taliban's Emir Hibatullah Akhundzada symbolize a feeling of unity among diverse factions inside the broader Taliban movement. The studies emphasize the deep ideological and operational connections between the two businesses, dating returned to their commonplace roots within the Afghan warfare in opposition to U.S. And allied forces. This public aid multiplied the TTP's standing amongst Islamist militants, probably attracting support and recruits.

? These were two demands put forward by the terrorist group TTP during negotiations for peace in which they insisted on both resuming the semi-autonomous existence of the tribal belt as well as seeing Sharia law introduced throughout Pakistan. The shift from broader regional issues to specific goals accentuated the TTP's trustworthiness in carrying out their purported plans (with a backdrop of Taliban influence throughout Afghanistan).

? Also important to the stabilization of the entire political system is stability in the economy promoted by increased trade and concerted monetary operations. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is regarded as an important work, the construction of which can economically integrate this region. There are certainly studies that suggest economic cooperation could establish a first-class cycle: balance protects growth in the economy and stability keeps standards stable.

? Highlighted in Pakistan's strategy for the TTP's comeback, is its desire for diplomatic means over long-term naval movements out of economic need. With rising monetary requirements and growing internal political complications. Great military offensives are very difficult for the entire nation. With regard to these very complicated, cross-border problems brought on by terrorism the pursuit of foreign assistance will become essential in terms of maintaining a local balance.

Conclusion

In the wake of Afghanistan's Taliban reincarnation, early neglect by many international actors fed a resurgent Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan. This creates through its changing forms numerous and complex threats to this region’s peace and security. This research paper has sought to get to the bottom of the tricky dynamics underlying this resurgence and to offer insights into capability strategies for mitigating the security threats posed by using the TTP. The alignment of the TTP with the Afghan Taliban has been a pivotal thing in its resurgence, as the Taliban's control over Afghanistan has furnished the TTP with a haven and a degree of legitimate endorsement. The release of TTP participants from Afghan prisons facilitated using the Taliban, has bolstered the TTP's operational abilities and leadership, contributing to its increased energy and cognizance of destabilizing Pakistan. The ideological and historical connections among the two corporations have in addition deepened their collaboration, supplying a united front inside the broader jihadist movement.

The monetary measurement emerges as a crucial anchor for balance in Afghanistan-Pakistan family members. The untapped financial resources of these two states, as pointed out by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan, provide an opportunity unseen before. Besides promoting connectivity, economic cooperation stimulated by the Chinese-Pakistan Economic Corridor and other developments also increases common political balance. Monetary stability will become a booster for sustainable stability by providing more options, with potential imports and exports of goods opening doors everywhere. The Pakistani response to the TTP resurgence is more complex than Western countries in that it recognizes that a real threat faces Pakistan, yet seeks diplomatic responses using Taliban mediation. The economic constraints of Pakistan meant that long-term fearsome confrontations were not realistic, and led from process to the eventuality referencing end-fire arrangements. Indeed, in US diplomatic negotiations the Taliban have used their reputation for not interfering with TTP operations against them to hit home that we share a common objective regarding terrorism across the border. Analyzing these conditions is the objective behind constructing defenses against TTP risk or creating a stable future. Managing the Afghanistan-Pakistan family is an element of commonality, this is a desire for cooperation, economic advancement and diplomatic space. Faced with such difficulties the whole area, however, understanding previous conflicts and working together towards common financial goals can open a path to greater resilience and security.

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