Afghan intelligence analyst Ajmal Sohail has accused Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) of focusing on Chinese infrastructure and investments in Afghanistan. Sohail, from the Counter Narco-Terrorism Alliance Germany, highlighted ISI’s concern over China’s increasing involvement in Kabul, which could reduce Pakistan’s influence. The ISI’s alleged strategy includes attacks on Chinese projects to maintain its importance in regional connectivity, especially regarding the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Sohail pointed out that the ISI is particularly interested in Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor as a potential trade route for China. By disrupting Chinese infrastructure plans in Afghanistan, the ISI aims to ensure that Pakistan remains a key player in China’s regional ambitions. Recently, a weapons shipment destined for the Wakhan Corridor was intercepted at the Torkham border, allegedly linked to Pakistan’s ISI and Military Intelligence, raising concerns about covert operations against the Taliban regime.
The seized weapons, including firearms and ammunition, were reportedly intended for anti-Taliban groups and armed factions targeting Chinese interests in the region. Sohail mentioned the involvement of various groups supported by Pakistani intelligence, indicating a complex proxy conflict involving Pakistan and the Taliban. This incident underscores the historical pattern of Pakistan using extremist proxies for strategic gains, posing risks of arms proliferation and cross-border militancy in the region.
