HOW PAKISTAN'S USE OF JIHAD AS STATE POLICY IS BACKFIRING

For decades, Pakistan has employed jihad as a strategic tool in its foreign policy, particularly targeting India and Afghanistan.

- SYED JAHANZEEB

This approach, deeply embedded within its military and intelligence establishments, aimed to leverage militant groups as proxies to achieve geopolitical objectives without direct confrontation. However, this doctrine is increasingly proving counterproductive, leading to regional instability, international isolation, and internal turmoil.

The roots of this policy trace back to the 1980s during the Soviet-Afghan war, where Pakistan, with support from the United States and other allies, facilitated the training and arming of mujahideen fighters. Post the Soviet withdrawal, these fighters were redirected towards Kashmir, intensifying the insurgency in the region. Groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) emerged, receiving tacit support from Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency. However, the global landscape has evolved. The international community, particularly post the 9/11 attacks, has become less tolerant of state-sponsored terrorism. Pakistan's continued harboring of terrorist groups has led to its placement on the Financial Action Task Force's (FATF) grey list, impacting its economy and international standing.

Domestically, the repercussions are severe. The very groups once considered strategic assets have turned inwards, challenging the state's authority. The Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has launched numerous attacks within Pakistan, targeting civilians and security forces alike. The sectarian violence, fueled by extremist ideologies, has further fragmented Pakistani society.

The recent Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, where 25 Indian citizens and one Nepali tourist were killed, underscores the persistent threat posed by Pakistan-backed groups. The Resistance Front, believed to be a proxy of LeT, claimed responsibility. This act of violence not only strained India-Pakistan relations but also drew widespread condemnation from the international community.