Pakistan Aligns with Islamic State to Counter Taliban Threat

Tensions in South Asia escalate as Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) reportedly supports the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) as a strategic move against the Taliban. This shift aims to leverage ISKP against the Taliban in the ongoing disputes surrounding the Durand Line and the Taliban’s alleged protection of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). This development raises questions about potential repercussions for regional stability, particularly concerning India.

The ISKP, which emerged as a significant player in Afghanistan, may find new strength through this backing from Pakistan. In recent years, the group has struggled to establish a substantial presence, largely due to internal conflicts and competition with the Taliban. The Taliban rejected an early alliance proposed by the Islamic State’s founder, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, which sought to unify their efforts toward establishing an Islamic Caliphate. Since that rejection, the two groups have engaged in frequent hostilities, further complicating the landscape of militant activity in the region.

With the TTP intensifying its operations against the Pakistani government and military, the ISI’s support for ISKP represents a calculated risk. By fostering this relationship, the ISI aims to divert attention away from its operations against the TTP and engage the Taliban in a multi-front conflict. This strategy, however, could create a more volatile environment if ISKP gains a foothold in Afghanistan, potentially leading to a new coalition of extremist groups.

The TTP itself is reportedly seeking alliances to bolster its capabilities. Intelligence officials indicate that discussions are underway between the TTP and the Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS). Established in 2014, AQIS has struggled to assert its influence in the region and sees an alliance with the TTP as a pathway to strengthen its position. Such a merger could transform the TTP into a broader umbrella group for various militant organizations, amplifying the security challenges faced by Pakistan and its neighbors.

The potential collaboration between the TTP and AQIS raises significant concerns, particularly regarding regional security. The AQIS has vested interests in India and Bangladesh, and a strengthened coalition could threaten stability across South Asia. Notably, the security situation in Bangladesh is precarious, with numerous terrorist groups attempting to establish networks in India. While ISKP has some support in Bangladesh, AQIS’s backing is more substantial, posing a greater risk to the region.

The situation has already drawn attention from AQIS leadership. Following political unrest in Bangladesh, the group’s Emir, Usama Mahmood, issued a statement supporting anti-government movements. He emphasized that the upheaval represents a broader response to perceived injustices against Muslims in the region, specifically targeting Hindu-majority India. Such rhetoric indicates a clear intent to destabilize the geopolitical landscape further.

In summary, Pakistan’s support for ISKP as a counterweight to the Taliban highlights a dangerous game of alliances and rivalries in South Asia. As the ISI seeks to navigate the complexities of the region’s militant landscape, the implications for security in Pakistan, India, and beyond remain profound. The potential for a new alliance among militant factions could reshape the dynamics of conflict in an already volatile area.