Abdul Basit

How conspiracy theories enable violent extremism

A culture of conspiracy theories have always existed within extremist groups of all hues and stripes, but it exploded during the Covid-19 pandemic.

How the US-Pakistan alliance in the 'War on Terror' hijacked itself

The more the US asked Pakistan to do, the further Pakistan moved from addressing the root causes of terrorism - and convincing its public that it was worth doing.

Taliban victory does not herald the revival of the global jihadist movement

The existing terrorist threat is likely to evolve in a far different way from the one witnessed after the 9/11 attacks.

It’s still too early to herald a Taliban victory in Afghanistan

The Taliban doesn't have the capacity or capabilities to retain the territories it captures. However, Afghanistan could be headed towards a military impasse that will either force the parties to find a political solution or drag it to a civil war.

Biden's daunting withdrawal dilemma in Afghanistan

Only a negotiated extension of the withdrawal timeframe with the Taliban and an expedited peace process inclusive of regional countries can help the US achieve a settlement.

How an Afghanistan settlement could affect militant groups globally

Any settlement the Taliban achieves in Afghanistan will have a ripple effect on 'jihadist' groups everywhere.

Is Pakistan losing its influence over the Taliban?

As the Taliban regains influence in Afghanistan it will look to shake its tag as a proxy force.

The rebranded 'Pakistani Taliban' may pose a renewed threat

The group has modified its aims to try and pose a new challenge to the Pakistani state which has so far succeeded in pushing it underground.