The Afghan Taliban–TTP Nexus: Evolution from the First Emirate to Post-2021

Abstract

This article traces the historical evolution of the Afghan Taliban–Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) relationship from the first Taliban regime (1996–2001) through the Global War on Terror to the post-2021 period. The article argues that the nexus has persisted through ideological fraternity, mutual cooperation, operational and tactical support, and a strategic partnership. It relies on sources such as UN monitoring reports and recent scholarship, and the study finds that while both movements share Deobandi-jihadi roots, their divergent objectives persist, with the Afghan Taliban focused on state governance and the TTP on insurgency against the Pakistani state. The persistence of cross-border sanctuaries and Kabul’s reluctance to confront the TTP continue to endanger Pakistan’s internal security and Afghanistan’s international legitimacy.