War is often viewed as the last resort when all other avenues for resolution have been exhausted. It is widely accepted that war exacerbates existing issues, leading to greater destruction, loss of life, and long-term instability. On the other hand, negotiation fosters peace, dismantles hatred, and creates an environment conducive to prosperity. Therefore, when evaluating the situation between Pakistan and Afghanistan, war is not the solution. The conflict between these two countries has been longstanding, but the recent escalation in tensions following the airstrikes in Afghanistan makes it crucial to explore peaceful solutions.

The situation worsened on December 25, 2024, when Pakistan conducted airstrikes on the Paktika region, claiming that the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) had established safe havens there. However, the Afghan Taliban government disputed this claim, asserting that the strikes targeted innocent immigrants from Waziristan, resulting in the deaths of 45 people, mostly women and children. In retaliation, the Afghan Taliban launched strikes on various regions within Pakistan, causing the deaths of 19 Pakistani troops. In response, Pakistan’s Defense Minister, Khawaja Asif, hinted at taking a firm stance against Afghanistan, further escalating tensions.

Despite the growing rhetoric in Pakistani media about an invasion of the Wakhan Corridor — a narrow strip of land situated at the crossroads of Pakistan, China, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan — experts argue that such claims are propaganda rather than reality. Engaging in conflict in the Wakhan Corridor could damage Pakistan’s relationship with China and intensify terrorism in the region.........

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