This commentary analyses the rare public conviction of former ISI chief Faiz Hameed, framing it as a case study of Pakistan’s shifting civil-military relations. It argues his downfall reflects institutional recalibration after his political alignment with Imran Khan became a liability.

This comment argues that Pakistan has approached Tajikistan and the Tajik-led NRF to secure a corridor to Central Asia, bypassing Taliban-controlled routes. Islamabad hopes this pressure will weaken Taliban support for the TTP, but risks alienating Pashtuns and complicating ties with China.

Pakistan’s anti-India narrative is not about concern for minorities but about preserving an ideology that defines India as a permanent civilizational enemy.