Afghanistan ranks ninth in the 2025 Global Terrorism Index, marking a significant decline in terrorism since the Islamic Emirate’s takeover. Despite improvements, the UN warns of a severe humanitarian crisis. Pakistan supports U.S. efforts to recover military equipment left in Afghanistan amidst security concerns. The Khaf-Herat railway project aims to strengthen trade relations. The security and humanitarian situations remain critical issues in the country.
Afghanistan has achieved a significant improvement in the 2025 Global Terrorism Index, ranking ninth for the second consecutive year, according to the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP). This marks Afghanistan’s highest improvement since the index began. The report reveals that Burkina Faso and Pakistan were the most affected by terrorism in 2024, while Afghanistan has experienced a notable decline in terrorism levels since the Islamic Emirate’s takeover, leading to enhanced internal stability.
Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesman for the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA), highlighted the government’s commitment to providing security, stating that Afghan territory does not pose a threat to other countries. He acknowledged minor incidents that could affect any nation but emphasized that the current security situation is a significant achievement for Afghanistan.
The report identifies the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) as the most dangerous group in Afghanistan, being responsible for one-fifth of all attacks in 2024. Additionally, the relationship between the Islamic Emirate and Pakistan has deteriorated due to border tensions and Pakistani strikes on Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP) hideouts in Afghanistan.
In other news, officials reported that the first phase of the fourth section of the Khaf-Herat railway is set to be completed within six months, which is poised to enhance trade and transportation links between Afghanistan and neighboring countries. Herat’s Governor, Noor Ahmad Islamjar, expressed appreciation for the contractors’ efforts and assured them of local administrative support.
The United Nations has raised alarms regarding a severe humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, indicating that over 23 million people, more than half the population, require urgent humanitarian assistance. Food insecurity remains a critical issue, with nearly 15 million people experiencing acute food shortages. Additionally, approximately 3.5 million children and over one million pregnant or breastfeeding women are anticipated to face acute malnutrition by the first quarter of 2025.
Furthermore, Pakistan has expressed support for the United States’ initiative to recover military equipment left in Afghanistan, citing concerns over its potential use by terrorist groups. However, Pakistan’s foreign ministry clarified that it is not facilitating U.S. actions in this regard. The situation escalated after the recent extradition of Daesh operative Mohammad Sharifullah to the U.S., who is wanted for a bombing incident during the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.
In conclusion, Afghanistan’s ranking as ninth in the 2025 Global Terrorism Index signifies a noteworthy improvement in its security situation. However, ongoing humanitarian crises and regional tensions remain pressing issues. Initiatives such as the Khaf-Herat railway project aim to bolster economic ties, while international cooperation regarding military equipment recovery denotes a complex geopolitical landscape. Efforts to address food insecurity and malnutrition will be critical as the country navigates these challenges.
Original Source: www.ariananews.af
