The Facts
Pakistan's caretaker PM Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar has claimed that equipment left behind by the US military following their withdrawal from Afghanistan has reached the possession of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), posing a "new challenge" to the country.
Speaking on Monday, Kakar claimed the equipment included thermal weapons, assault rifles, and night vision goggles, among other possessions. The Taliban reclaimed control of Afghanistan in 2021 following the withdrawal of US and NATO troops from the country.
The Spin
Narrative A
After Pakistan supported the Afghan Taliban for 20 years, the terror group and its affiliated factions have returned the favor by threatening their once-loyal friends. With Kabul helping to facilitate the supply of US weapons to their allies within Pakistan, the security of the nation has been undermined exponentially – pushing Islamabad into a corner where military retaliation is a political necessity.
Narrative B
Pakistan continues to portray itself as the victim of Afghan-led terrorism internationally, but in reality, the state continues to engage in border hostility in an unsuccessful attempt to bully Kabul into being subservient to Islamabad's strategic interests. The actions of the TTP are a consequence of Pakistan's failed regional policies and continued military aggression.
