Expecting IEA to evict TTP from the Afghan soil now is naiveté, for reasons previously explained; much that Kabul would badly want to extend control over the TTP enclave and ISIS areas of influence. Here again, since most TTP cadre has local blood on its hands, it demands repatriation in groups carrying arms, which is non-negotiable. The best course for TTP ‘black cadre’ is to assimilate and live in Afghanistan, to age and fade away, like the Arab Mujahideen in erstwhile FATA. Even if the trade bonus is underplayed, the geo-strategic dividend of a relatively peaceful, less militarised and less hostile Afghanistan would compel our decision-makers to shun any animosity towards Afghanistan. However, besides the cited constants, TTP remains the only variable in Pak-Afghan relations.

Source: The Express Tribune December 22, 2022 15:47 UTC