IMPACT OF THE US WITHDRAWAL ON PAKISTAN-AFGHANISTAN SECURITY COOPERATION: A POST-2021 ANALYSIS

Abstract

This study analyzes the post-withdrawal contours of security cooperation between Pakistan and Afghanistan. The objective of this study is to dissect and unravel the complex bilateral dynamics in a better manner for tackling the threat landscape of militancy evolved after the 2021 US withdrawal and intelligence sharing needs to deter attacks. The methodology synthesizes insights from scholarly publications, think tank articles, official statements, and regional developments using qualitative secondary analysis of existing literature categorized along historical tensions, strategic interests, current initiatives, regional powers' roles, and partnership challenges/opportunities. For instance, very key results are very telling: deep-rooted trust deficits continue to burgeon from proxy interventions and terror sanctuaries fostering suspicion between agencies and the public. However, promising cooperation targeting militant groups has emerged lately. This means that in a lasting partnership, both sides have to provide tangible results by dismantling networks through coordinated raids. Incremental developments in Afghan peace talks, limitation of proxy wars through regional consensus, socioeconomic projects binding border communities, and enduring dialogue are fundamental confidence measures. Usefulness is actually in outlining cooperation areas and risks that still cloud potential with implications for regional stability.