MULTIPLE blasts in Afghanistan within the last few weeks have worsened the chaos in that country, leaving hundreds of people dead, including schoolchildren, and leaving several others wounded. The rising incidence of violence and militancy in the neighbouring country is worrisome for Pakistan as it can exacerbate the country’s own militancy problem around its border areas and religious extremism inside.

The exit of American forces from Afghanistan is leaving the country in a state of quandary, giving ample room to the hardliners to gain a strong foothold. Many analysts agree that history is repeating itself in Afghanistan, and the situation is similar to that of the 1990s, which is threatening for Pakistan’s national security.

The radical and conservative groups have insisted on the establishment of a new system of governance, and have rejected the current system as having been installed by the United States.

The quest for power is bound to wreak havoc, and the poor masses will face its consequences once again.

Hidayat Nasar

Islamabad

Published in Dawn, June 21st, 2021