The relationship between the Taliban and Pakistan is complex and multifaceted, characterized by historical, strategic, and ideological dimensions. The Taliban emerged in the early 1990s in the midst of Afghanistan's civil war following the withdrawal of Soviet forces. While the Taliban is an Afghan Islamist movement, its origins and rise to power are closely intertwined with Pakistan's intelligence agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).Here's a breakdown of the relationship between the Taliban and Pakistan, including how the ISI played a role in its creation:Strategic Interests: Pakistan views Afghanistan through the lens of strategic depth, seeking to ensure a friendly government in Kabul that would provide a buffer against its arch-rival, India. The ISI saw the Taliban as a potential instrument to achieve this goal due to its Pashtun ethnicity (Pashtuns straddle both sides of the Pakistan-Afghanistan border) and its adherence to a strict interpretation of Sunni Islam, which resonated with certain segments of the Afghan population.Support during the Soviet-Afghan War: During the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan (1979-1989), Pakistan, along with the United States and Saudi Arabia, supported Afghan mujahideen groups, including some factions that would later coalesce into the Taliban. The ISI played a key role in channeling funds, weapons, and training to these groups, including individuals who would become influential figures in the Taliban leadership.Formation of the Taliban: In the early 1990s, following the Soviet withdrawal, Afghanistan descended into civil war among various mujahideen factions vying for power. Amid the chaos and instability, the Taliban emerged as a force aiming to restore order and implement their interpretation of Islamic law. Many of the early Taliban leaders had received support, training, and ideological indoctrination in Pakistani madrassas (religious schools) funded by Saudi Arabia and facilitated by the ISI.Direct Support from Pakistan: As the Taliban gained momentum in Afghanistan, Pakistan provided direct support, including military assistance, logistical support, and diplomatic backing. Pakistani military advisors reportedly played a role in training Taliban fighters and providing strategic guidance. Pakistan's support for the Taliban was driven by its desire for a stable and compliant neighbor, as well as its strategic interests in maintaining influence in Afghanistan.Ongoing Relationship: Despite international pressure to sever ties with the Taliban, Pakistan has maintained a complex relationship with the group, balancing its support with efforts to avoid international isolation. The Taliban's resurgence in Afghanistan following the U.S.-led invasion in 2001 further solidified Pakistan's interest in maintaining ties with the group as a potential ally in shaping Afghanistan's future.Accusations of ISI Support: Over the years, there have been persistent allegations of direct ISI support for the Taliban, including providing sanctuary to Taliban leaders on Pakistani soil, facilitating financial and logistical support, and even directing Taliban military operations. While Pakistan denies these allegations, evidence suggests ongoing links and support between elements within the ISI and the Taliban.(commercial at 10:11)to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Tensions high after Pakistan launches cross-border attacks into Afghanistan | Conflict News | Al JazeeraBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.