Who is Pakistan fighting with? This question often arises in the context of the country’s complex geopolitical landscape. Pakistan, located in South Asia, has been involved in various conflicts and tensions with different nations over the years. Understanding the adversaries Pakistan faces is crucial to grasp the broader picture of its security and foreign policy.
The primary adversary for Pakistan has traditionally been India, with whom it shares a long-standing border dispute and has fought several wars since gaining independence in 1947. The conflict primarily revolves around the divided region of Kashmir, which both countries claim in full but control only partially. This territorial dispute has led to a series of military confrontations, with the most recent being the 2019 Pulwama attack and the subsequent Balakot air strikes by India.
Apart from India, Pakistan has also been engaged in a proxy war with neighboring Afghanistan. This conflict has been ongoing since the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, when Pakistan, with the support of the United States, became a key ally in the anti-Soviet resistance. The relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan has been fraught with tension, particularly after the 2001 US-led invasion of Afghanistan. Pakistan has been accused of harboring Taliban and other militant groups, which it denies.
Another significant adversary for Pakistan is the Islamic State (IS) and other radical Islamist groups. These groups have carried out numerous terror attacks within Pakistan, targeting both civilian and military installations. The Pakistani government has been fighting an ongoing counter-insurgency campaign against these groups, with mixed results.
Furthermore, Pakistan has faced tensions with the United States over its alleged support for the Taliban and other militant groups. This has strained the relationship between the two countries, despite their strategic partnership in the region. The US has frequently accused Pakistan of not doing enough to dismantle terror networks operating along the Afghan border.
In conclusion, Pakistan is fighting with multiple adversaries, including India, Afghanistan, radical Islamist groups, and the United States. These conflicts and tensions have shaped the country’s foreign policy and security landscape, making it a crucial player in the South Asian region. Understanding the complexities of these relationships is essential for those seeking to comprehend the dynamics of the region.
