On August 15, 2021, following the withdrawal of the United States and NATO, the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan once again assumed power over the entire country. For those political figures and groups who had relied on foreign support, the collapse of the republican system was a severe blow. Many fled the country, some settled in Western states, but most found refuge in Pakistan.
In this context, Afghan opposition groups have leaned on neighboring countries—particularly Pakistan—for political and personal objectives. Pursuing its long-standing “Strategic Depth Policy,” Pakistan uses these proxy groups to expand its influence in Afghanistan’s internal affairs. As part of this policy, numerous Afghan government opponents hold meetings in Islamabad, conduct joint sessions with Pakistan’s military and intelligence, and adopt coordinated stances against Afghanistan.
Since its inception, Pakistan has pursued the “Strategic Depth” policy toward Afghanistan. The purpose of this strategy has been to keep Afghanistan under its influence, to use it as an instrument of its foreign and security policy, and to secure a rear base against India—an area where the army can access supplies, rest, and ensure safety when needed.
Pakistan has always dealt with Afghan governments based on its own interests. When the new government in Kabul assumed power, Pakistan expected it to comply with Islamabad’s demands. However, due to the government’s independent stance, Pakistan felt frustrated. Consequently, it renewed and increased support for former officials and opposition groups, extending patronage to them once again.
Over the past four years, several such meetings have been organized in Islamabad, Turkey, and other countries, where opponents of the Afghan government gathered. These meetings have involved anti-government propaganda, spreading a negative image of Afghanistan internationally, and discussions about forming an alternative political movement. Pakistan’s military and intelligence apparatus are behind these efforts, providing financial assistance, logistical support, and media coverage. Pakistani media—particularly those under military influence—broadcast the statements of opposition figures, arrange interviews for them, and attempt to portray to the international community that the Afghan government faces serious opposition.
Pakistan seeks to obstruct Afghanistan’s political stability and independent policy, as the existence of a strong, united, and independent Afghanistan poses a major obstacle to Islamabad’s regional objectives and ambitions. Thus, supporting Afghan opposition groups serves as a long-term tool for Pakistan.
Afghan government opponents who seek shelter in Pakistan’s embrace ultimately prove themselves enemies of Afghanistan’s independence, national unity, and future. Their stance doesn’t benefit them little, but it serves as a tool for Pakistan’s long-term strategic objectives.
The Pakistani intelligence agency’s aim in organizing such gatherings against the Afghan government is to exert pressure, obstruct independent processes, use these groups as a strategic card, and show the world that an opposition movement remains active. By doing so, they attempt to convince the international community that the current Afghan system is unsustainable, portraying it as isolated, weak, and unstable.
Opponents of the Afghan government who flee to Islamabad have become instruments of Pakistan’s strategic goals. The real purpose behind their meetings, propaganda, and connections is to intensify pressure against Afghanistan.
The only lasting solution to this phenomenon lies in strengthening national unity, resolving internal issues domestically, and forming a united stance against foreign interference. Until Afghans themselves unite to preserve independence, stability, and unity, Pakistan’s policies will continue, and Afghan opposition groups will remain tools of foreign interests.
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