While the report largely focused on the activities of Al-Qaeda and ISIS, it also made a claim that TTP might merge with Al-Qaeda. The differences of orientation, limitations of Afghan Taliban regime and organisational aims and objectives point towards trajectory of distinct identity rather than prospects for merger. The top four jihadist outfits — Al-Qaeda, Afghan Taliban, TTP and IS-Khorasan — all had contesting aims and objectives, falling under two distinct jihadist ideologies. Any such merger will cause an Al-Qaeda “affiliate” attacking a US ally and a neighbouring country. Hence, the prospects for TTP to continue its distinct course are greater than the prospects of it merging within Al-Qaeda.
