Being in Warzone: Implications of War on Terror for the National Security of Pakistan

Abstract

It is a common phenomenon that whenever a “War” flares up on a large scale for long period in any country it not only affects that country but also its ramifications are felt in the whole region as well. Three decades of war in Afghanistan left huge repercussions not only for Afghanistan but also for neighboring countries. Pakistan being a front-line state against expansion of communism in 1979 was badly affected. Due to geographical location, long border with Afghanistan, close proximity with Taliban regime swathed Pakistan in Global war on terrorism as well. Pakistan’s involvement in the US led war on terrorism has many short and long-term implications for its National Security. Pakistan got the status of non-NATO ally and frontline state in Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) and also got economic, military assistance and succeeded to end international isolation. However, Pakistan faced more negative corollaries than positive. As an important part of Global war against terrorism, Pakistan is facing upshots on its foreign policy, politics, Economy and Social fabric. It has not only put Pakistan into terrible crises but also left devastating impacts and misery to Pakistan than any other country of the world. In the last decade, Pakistan experienced escalation of terrorism, insecurity, instability and political violence because of front line state in War against terrorism. Following research will trace out the implications of war on terrorism on Pakistan and explores what Pakistan achieved and lost as a frontline state in war on terrorism.

Keywords: Terrorism, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Implications, America, War on Terrorism