Dealing with Afghanistan after the US Withdrawal: Challenges and Options for Pakistan

Abstract

The withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan in July 2021 resulted in the fall of Kabul within a month and the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan. Since the Afghan Taliban are a reality to reckon with, hence, Pakistan needs to deal with the challenges amid this situation and calculate policy options for a sound relationship based upon mutual trust and security of the whole region. The situation after the fall of Kabul in August 2021 is still developing but one thing is clear this would enhance Pakistan’s difficulties. The need of the hour is to carefully examine the ground conditions and then take calibrated measures to secure Pakistan’s interests in the region. This essay studies and analyzes issues and current challenges for Pakistan and how to deal with the situation after the US withdrawal.