Following Pakistan's stellar performance on the battlefield and in foreign policy front there should have been a more careful calibration of how those gains could turn into a solid foundation for a more stable internal and regional environment. It surely was not going to come easy. India, in desperate attempt to sully Pakistan's re-enthused image in the global community, opted to double down on its use of terror and sub-conventional warfare through proxy groups in Afghanistan. If Pakistan is seen fighting a rearguard battle in its midst reeling under a siege of dissident groups, the image of a victorious military force could be effectively dulled. India has opted for this approach to compensate for its loss of prestige. Sponsored articles in the Western press and frequent reports of another war, now on the western border, adequately keep the news alive to reinforce the perception. This image of a resolute, strong and a capable Pakistani military force is thus under attack through the composite agency of malice and terror emanating out of Afghanistan under Indian bidding.

There has been a growing call for the state to respond to the spate of terror from Afghanistan that had increased both in frequency and intensity. Pakistan had only mollycoddled the Taliban regime on the issue despite suffering heavy losses over the years. But Taliban regime's persistent failure to rein in elements, especially of the TTP, who find both bases and protection in Afghanistan, has only meant that Pakistan had to counter terror at the base of its inception. While Pakistan has done its utmost to keep matters congenial and peaceful, Afghanistan has failed to keep up with its part of the responsibility. They have chosen to turn a blind eye, or dismiss these requests, or are unable to........

© The Express Tribune