In the last quarter of 2025, Afghanistan’s Taliban regime performed a political backflip and raced to repair and strengthen strategic and economic ties with India. [4] However, by October 12, 2025, Afghan forces retaliated with airstrikes on Lahore, using US Super Tucano jets left behind during the American exodus. General Zia ul-Haq’s dream of strategic depth in Afghanistan, which mesmerised the military leadership for over three decades, has become a bitter nightmare for Pakistan. References:1] “Taliban Commerce Minister Urges Afghan Sikh and Hindu Communities to Return.” Afghanistan International, 21 Nov. 2025, www.afintl.com/en/202511218042. 12] “Pakistan’s Khawaja Asif Accuses Kabul of Being India’s Puppet, Vows Revenge.” India Today, 29 Oct. 2025, www.indiatoday.in/world/story/pakistans-khawaja-asif-accuses-kabul-of-being-indias-puppet-vows-revenge-glbs-2809917-2025-10-2913] Ariana News.

Source: The Hindu December 29, 2025 15:23 UTC