Pakistan vs TTP: Why the Taliban Won’t Act – With Dr. Michael
Introduction
In this episode of the Kianistan Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Michael , a leading expert on South Asia, to unpack one of the most pressing security dilemmas in the region: Pakistan’s struggle with the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Afghan Taliban’s unwillingness to act against them. This episode provides historical context, geopolitical insights, and an analysis of how these tensions are reshaping Pakistan-Afghanistan relations.
Pakistan’s Dilemma: The TTP Threat
The TTP has re-emerged as a formidable challenge for Pakistan. With sanctuaries across the Afghan border, the group continues to launch deadly attacks on Pakistani security forces. Despite Pakistan’s expectations, the Afghan Taliban has refused to rein in the TTP, straining ties between the two former allies.
Dr. Kugelman explains that the Taliban’s stance is not due to lack of capacity, but rather due to deep ideological, historical, and operational ties between the Afghan Taliban and the TTP.
Keywords: Pakistan vs TTP, Afghan Taliban, Dr Michael Kugelman, Pakistan security, Taliban relations.
Why the Taliban Won’t Act
The Afghan Taliban sees the TTP as an ally, not an adversary. Several of its leaders once served in the Haqqani Network, one of the most powerful Taliban factions. Turning against the TTP could risk internal fractures and spark another conflict inside Afghanistan—something the Taliban leadership cannot afford.
Moreover, the Taliban’s legitimacy rests on the narrative of restoring peace in Afghanistan. Cracking down on the TTP could provoke violent retaliation, undermining that fragile stability.
Regional Geopolitics and Economic Stakes
While tensions are high, both Pakistan and Afghanistan remain economically dependent on each other. Pakistan provides vital transit for Afghan trade, while Afghanistan offers Pakistan access to Central Asia.
China, India, and the US also play significant roles in shaping the region’s dynamics, as discussed in this episode. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), India’s investments in Afghanistan, and US counterterrorism interests all intersect with the Taliban-TTP issue.
Keywords: Pakistan Afghanistan relations, TTP attacks, Central Asia connectivity, CPEC, India-Afghanistan, China-Taliban.
Watch on YouTube
🎥 Watch the full conversation with Dr. Michael Kugelman here: