Pakistan’s new clout puts it at centre of fragile geopolitical web

Islamabad is relishing its new role as a diplomatic go-between, but its networking across competing geopolitical spheres will ultimately lead to a more fragile, combustible region.…READ MORE

Letter from Pakistan: How a Jailed Imran Khan’s Popularity Continues to Confound his Enemies

In Islamabad this week, tens of thousands of supporters of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan invaded the tree-lined streets of the most heavily protected section ‑ the red zone ‑ of the federal capital.

It was no easy feat for them to get there. The army and police were also present in the thousands, amid a security lockdown in the country, internet blackouts and blockades of major roads leading to the capital to repel the demonstrations.…READ MORE

As Canada Welcomes Afghan Women Politicians, a Reminder of a Larger Betrayal

ISLAMABAD — The bipartisan effort by Canadian politicians to bring women Afghan politicians to Canada is a heartwarming story. They are among the 69 women who once served in Afghanistan’s Parliament. One of the former politicians on the list of those hoping to escape to Canada, Mursal Nabizada, was murdered in January 2023. Her security guard was arrested by the Taliban for her murder as well as that of another of her security detail in February 2023. The motive for her murder was not known. But six have made it out safely.…READ MORE