Pakistan’s challenges are spiraling beyond just its economic woes, with internal strife, insurgent violence, and cross-border tensions creating a dangerous mix that threatens the stability of the entire region.

Border clashes between Pakistan’s Frontier Corps and the Taliban along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border are intensifying. This past Sunday, a deadly exchange in Kunar Province left eight Afghan soldiers dead, including two senior commanders. Similar skirmishes have become increasingly common in 2024, especially in hot zones like North Waziristan and Mastung. The violence has exacerbated already fragile relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan, with both sides blaming each other for escalating the conflict.

Within Pakistan, the rise of militant attacks has turned the situation even more dire. The insurgency in Balochistan, led by groups like the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), continues to wreak havoc. In August, the province saw 57 deaths from 29 separate terror attacks, a stark reminder of the region’s ongoing turmoil. The insurgency is growing, with militant groups targeting security forces, civilians, and infrastructure. Even more concerning, the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), after a two-year pause, has announced the return of suicide bombings, threatening what it calls a “defensive jihad” along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border.

Pakistan’s internal security problems are worsened by political instability. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, during a recent trip to London, blamed the former Imran Khan government for the current mess, particularly pointing to the release of over 100 militants during Khan’s tenure. According to Dar, this decision has had devastating consequences, with many of those released now playing central roles in orchestrating terror attacks, particularly in Balochistan.

Meanwhile, Imran Khan, now behind bars, is struggling to navigate Pakistan’s complex political landscape. His attempts to maintain influence are being met with resistance, and the government seems more focused on political vendettas than addressing the growing crises. The continued political dysfunction has left Pakistan in a precarious position, with no clear path to stability.

In the face of rising terror threats, economic collapse, and political infighting, Pakistan’s future looks increasingly uncertain. Without urgent action to address both its internal and external challenges, the country risks further unraveling.