While Maulana’s call for dialogue holds promise, it must be accompanied by a firm stance against those who threaten Pakistan’s security. Only through this multifaceted approach can Pakistan hope to achieve peace and stability on its western frontier. The path forward necessitates patience, diplomacy, and a clear eyed understanding of the evolving Afghan landscape. Pakistan must walk a tightrope, balancing the pursuit of peace with the firm need to protect its citizens from terrorist threats. The success of this delicate dance will ultimately determine the future of Pakistan’s security and its aspirations for stability in the region. The recent visit of JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman to Afghanistan, accompanied by Deobandi clerics, has cast a complex light on Pakistan’s intricate diplomatic dance with its volatile neighbor. While the government officially distanced itself from the visit,

characterizing it as a private one, it also revealed that Maulana was briefed on Pakistan’s Afghan policy beforehand. This nuanced approach reflects the delicate balancing act Pakistan faces in navigating its relationship with a Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. Maulana’s call for a dialogue commission to address bilateral issues through mutual understanding resonates with many Pakistanis yearning for stability and peace. The scars of cross-border terrorism run deep, with the rise in attacks in 2023 serving as a stark reminder of the precarious security situation. The 271 attacks documented by PICSS in the first half of 2023 stand as a grim testament to the threat posed by militant groups like the TTP, who find safe havens across the porous border. On the other hand, the Pakistani government’s emphatic rejection of TTP dialogue highlights the inherent contradictions in this narrative. While engaging with the Afghan Taliban in the hope of securing their cooperation in curbing TTP activities, Pakistan simultaneously refuses direct dialogue with the militants themselves. This seemingly contradictory stance stems from a deep-seated mistrust of the TTP, whose past deceptions and continued violence have eroded any possibility of meaningful engagement. The question then arises, can Pakistan realistically expect the Afghan Taliban to crack down on TTP while it itself refuses to engage directly? The answer lies in navigating a complex maze of political realities and ideological alignments. The Afghan Taliban, despite assurances to prevent Afghan soil from being used against Pakistan, faces their own internal power struggles and competing loyalties. Pressuring them too intensely on the TTP front could jeopardize fragile diplomatic gains and risk further instability in the region. Consequently, Pakistan requires a multi-pronged approach to tackle the Afghan conundrum. While maintaining a firm stance against TTP dialogue, it must engage the Afghan Taliban constructively, emphasizing shared security concerns and the mutual benefits of regional stability. Building trust through economic cooperation and people-to-people exchanges can create a conducive environment for tackling cross-border terrorism. What is more, strengthening internal security measures is crucial. The Pakistani state must remain vigilant against TTP recruitment and propaganda, effectively countering their narrative with a message of peace and unity. Investing in social development and addressing the root causes of extremism can further weaken the TTP’s appeal and make their recruitment efforts less fruitful.