Pakistan's domestic security troubles intensify under Taliban rule
Since the Taliban's takeover of Kabul in August 2021, Pakistan has faced a surge in militant attacks, escalating security challenges, and strained regional relations. The causes of this heightened instability are interconnected, with spillover from Afghanistan, emboldened Islamist militant groups, and existing domestic insurgencies playing significant roles.
Causes of Instability
The Taliban’s return to power provided new safe havens and ideological inspiration for militant groups in Pakistan, leading to increased militant operations across the border and within the country itself. Groups affiliated with or inspired by the Taliban and Islamic State intensified activities, capitalizing on Afghanistan's instability.
The Baloch separatist movement in the southwestern province of Balochistan has been long-standing, fighting for autonomy or independence. The Taliban's recurrence complicated the situation, with various factions either aligning with Islamist militancy or continuing nationalist separatism. This has perpetuated ongoing armed conflicts and insurgent attacks.
Insurgent groups, including Baloch separatists, have also targeted Chinese nationals and related infrastructure to pressure Pakistan to withdraw support for projects they oppose.
Consequences
The uptick in violence disrupted internal security, requiring Pakistan to enhance military operations and counterterrorism efforts, complicating its political landscape. Notable attacks involving suicide bombings and assaults on security forces and civilians have been reported, including large-scale attacks in Balochistan province, sometimes linked to Islamic State factions or Taliban splinter groups.
The increase in violence has also affected relationships with neighboring countries, such as India, and complicated Pakistan’s cooperation with international actors, especially concerning cross-border terrorism and insurgency.
Ongoing Conflicts
The Baloch separatist insurgency continues as a significant internal security challenge, frequently manifesting in attacks on security forces and infrastructure, including those associated with Chinese investments. Militant attacks against Chinese nationals remain a grave concern, as insurgents seek to undermine CPEC’s progress, making protection of foreign workers a priority in Pakistani security policies.
Pakistan continues to face threats from various armed factions, including religious extremists like the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the local affiliate of the Islamic State known as ISKP, and Baloch separatists. These moves have posed new obstacles to diplomatic efforts to reset the relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
In summary, the Taliban's 2021 takeover of Kabul has contributed to a more conducive environment for militant groups in Pakistan, exacerbating longstanding internal conflicts with Baloch separatists and increasing the targeting of Chinese nationals linked to economic projects. This complex security scenario poses ongoing challenges for Pakistan's internal stability and regional relations.
[1] UN Report, July 2025.
- The Taliban's ascension in Afghanistan has offered a breeding ground for militant groups in Pakistan, intensifying their operations, as seen in the rise of Islamist militant activities along the border and within the country.
- The ongoing conflicts, such as the Baloch separatist struggle for autonomy and the targeted attacks on Chinese nationals, add to the complex security scenario in Pakistan, exerting pressure on diplomatic efforts between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
