ICG Warns: Pakistan-Afghanistan Conflict to Escalate by 2026, New Strikes Feared

• International Crisis Group (ICG) warns Pakistan-Afghanistan tensions are among 10 conflicts likely to escalate by 2026.
• ICG predicts Pakistan will strike Afghanistan again if militant attacks are traced to Afghan territory, despite Taliban's military weakness.
• Kabul claims missile capability to reach Pakistani cities, potentially triggering a stronger response from Islamabad.
• Diplomatic ties are suspended, trade ceased, and Pakistan's mass deportations of Afghans have worsened relations.
• Concerns over Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) ties with Afghan Taliban persist, fueling Pakistan's suspicion despite denials.

Why It Matters: ICG warns of severe Pakistan-Afghanistan escalation by 2026, fearing renewed strikes and deadly retaliation.