Another 9/11 Threat Could Emerge from Afghanistan

9/11 Threat

ISLAMABAD: A top Pakistani diplomat managing relations with Afghanistan has raised significant concerns about the potential for another major terrorist attack, similar to 9/11, originating from Afghanistan.

Ambassador Asif Durrani, Pakistan’s special representative on Afghanistan, warned that the world seems to have largely forgotten the war-torn country, a situation he believes could have dire consequences.

During a recent talk at the Ambassadors’ Lounge, Durrani expressed his alarm over the international community’s diminishing focus on Afghanistan.

He pointed out that humanitarian assistance to the country has been inadequate, with only one-third of last year’s aid commitments being met.

Durrani highlighted that, following crises like the war in Ukraine and the Palestinian conflict, global priorities have shifted, leaving Afghanistan sidelined.

He emphasized that this neglect could potentially revert the country to conditions similar to those before the 9/11 attacks, which could subsequently lead to a new wave of terrorism.

Durrani noted that the majority of Afghanistan’s population, approximately 97%, lives below the poverty line, with 52% heavily reliant on international humanitarian aid.

He warned that if Afghanistan’s economic situation continues to worsen, it might prompt a large-scale emigration, with many seeking refuge in neighboring Pakistan.

This situation, according to Durrani, requires urgent attention from the international community.

The presence of various terrorist groups, including Daesh Khorasan (ISKP), is another critical issue.

Durrani expressed concern about ISKP’s growing influence in Afghanistan and its implications for regional and global security.

He cited the group’s activities in Iran, Moscow, and Pakistan as evidence of its increasing reach and potential threat.

Reflecting on the Taliban’s three years in power, Durrani acknowledged some improvements, such as enhanced security and reduced corruption, which have been recognized internationally.

However, he criticized the Taliban’s actions, noting that their strict rules, particularly those impacting women’s education, contradict Islamic principles and have hindered their efforts to gain international legitimacy.

The relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan has deteriorated under the Taliban regime, particularly due to the Taliban’s failure to address the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) threat.

Durrani noted that while Pakistan welcomes peace in Afghanistan, the increased TTP attacks—rising by 70%—have become a significant problem for Pakistan.

Despite the Taliban’s reluctance to act against terrorist sanctuaries, Durrani remains confident that diplomatic efforts will eventually resolve the TTP issue.