THE US administration’s new Afghan policy — deploying some 4,000 more troops, toughening actions on insurgents and Pakistan — offers nothing new and critical. The India-centered approach is reminiscent of pressuring Pakistan only to renounce its nuclear project, and is bound to fail again.

Pakistan’s concerns of growing Indian clout in Afghanistan are legitimate and give credence to the ‘cold start doctrine’ of India. The Foreign Office, which has long been the pivotal point in civil-military conflict, should sit with the military leadership and deliberate a long-term policy.

Some important suggestions are underlined. First, a diplomatic, pragmatic and synergistic, involving both civil and military leadership, rather than an emotional or individual response is needed. Pakistan should raise its legitimate concerns through diplomatic channels and convince the international community of its sacrifices on war against terrorism.

Albeit, the anticipated sanctions would be mostly symbolic: US still have the diplomatic tools to further isolate Pakistan. Secondly, Pakistan should look for new alliances to alleviate increasing pressure. A stable relation with Russia and a rapprochement with Iran could be the starting-point. Although, in the case of Iran, it will be a herculean task; however, we still share some common grounds such as US accusations of harbouring terrorism.

Thirdly, and most importantly, securing the Durand Line must be made a priority for two reasons: to convey a message to the international community that there is no cross-border involvement and to protect Pakistan from fleeing insurgents into its territory, when the US actions in Afghanistan toughens.

Mumtaz Ali

Mardan

Published in Dawn, September 18th, 2017