Afghanistan Under the Shadows of Taliban and Implications For Pakistan and Regional Security

The Taliban's possible return to Kabul would affect the region, in the short term, the situation in Afghanistan may benefit regional players; China, Russia, Pakistan, and Iran but in long term, can become problematic for these nations. This study shed light on the future prospects of regional politics, in case the Taliban return back to the driving seat of Kabul as there are historical and ideological facts that can help to understand it. The power structure of future government in Afghanistan will determine, the future of the region and Pakistan’s relations with Afghanistan. In case the Taliban remain successful to seize power alone, it affects differently on the neighboring states and the region, and if they return with power-sharing formula as desired by the western power, the implications will be different. Pakistan and regional players should prepare for both situations so that they can manage the situation accordingly. This study examined the eventual geopolitics of the region, in case of Taliban return to power.