Pakistan's connection with the Taliban started in the 1990s when its military and intelligence services helped the group rise to power. This was influenced by geopolitical factors like the Cold War and Pakistan's own interests in Afghanistan. Over the years, different Pakistani governments have had to deal with balancing international pressure, especially from the West and with their own strategic needs.

 The return of the Taliban to power in Afghanistan has caused security worries in Pakistan, particularly with the risk of cross border attacks and the rise of local insurgent groups. The situation has also led to many refugees and displaced people moving to Pakistan’s border regions, creating humanitarian issues.

Pakistan faces challenges in managing its relationships with neighbors especially India, while dealing with the Taliban's rule. Looking to the future, Pakistan’s relationship with the Taliban will likely focus on peace talks, securing borders and protecting its interests in Afghanistan.

 Who Were the Taliban and What Led to the Formation of Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP)? 

The Taliban is a Sunni Islamist group that started in the early 1990s, mainly made up of farmers and students from religious schools in Afghanistan and Pakistan. The group grew stronger in southern Afghanistan and quickly took control of several provinces.

By 1996 they ruled most of Afghanistan and enforce a very strict version of Islamic law that severely harmed women, political opponents, and religious minorities. In 2007, Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP) was created to unite groups fighting against the Pakistani government.

TTP wants to remove Pakistani influence from certain areas and enforce strict Sharia law, and create an Islamic caliphate by overthrowing the Pakistani government. The group has worked closely with al-Qaida and has carried out attacks which include the failed bombing in Times Square in 2010. Under leaders like Baitullah Mehsud and Mullah Fazlullah, TTP has threatened to attack Western countries and called for violence against foreign troops. 

Complex Relation b/w Pakistan & Afghanistan 

Afghanistan and Pakistan have a complex relationship, shaped by historical, political and territorial tensions. Pakistan initially supported the Taliban, viewing them as an ally but the Taliban government has proven less cooperative, focusing on strengthening nationalistic support within Afghanistan and seeking relations beyond Pakistan. 

One key issue is the Durand Line, a border between the two countries that Afghanistan has never recognized. The Taliban continues to reject it also complicating Pakistan’s strategic goals in the region. Since the Taliban’s return to power, militant attacks in Pakistan, especially by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) have increased and creating instability. 

Pakistan’s support for the Afghan Taliban is now seen as backfiring as it has emboldened groups like TTP. The Taliban has rejected Pakistani demands to act against TTP leaders, viewing them as an internal issue. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s military continues airstrikes in Afghanistan and sending a message to its population while avoiding domestic political pressures.