Afghanistan ranks ninth in the 2025 Global Terrorism Index, marking an exit from the top five most impacted countries for the second consecutive year. Improvements in security have been noted following the Islamic Emirate’s governance, although a severe humanitarian crisis persists with over 23 million people needing assistance. Infrastructure projects like the Khaf-Herat railway are underway, and Pakistan supports a U.S. initiative to retrieve military equipment left behind in Afghanistan.
According to the 2025 Global Terrorism Index released by the Institute for Economics and Peace, Afghanistan has ranked ninth, marking its exit from the top five countries most affected by terrorism for the second consecutive year. This signifies the largest improvement since the index was established. Burkina Faso and Pakistan topped the rankings in 2024.
The report indicates a significant decline in terrorism levels in Afghanistan following the Islamic Emirate’s governance, credited for maintaining internal stability. Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesman for the Islamic Emirate, asserted that the Afghan territory poses no threat to other nations, emphasizing, “The security we currently have is a major achievement for Afghans.”
The report identifies the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) as the deadliest faction in Afghanistan, responsible for 20% of all attacks in 2024. Additionally, tensions have escalated between the Islamic Emirate and Pakistan over territorial disputes and airstrikes against Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP) hideouts in Afghan territory.
In infrastructure developments, the Herat’s governor’s office reported that the first phase of the Khaf-Herat railway’s fourth section is set to be completed within six months. This project aims to enhance transportation and boost trade relations between Afghanistan and its neighbors, with local officials offering full support to expedite the work.
The United Nations has raised alarms about Afghanistan’s humanitarian crisis, indicating that over 23 million people require urgent assistance. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric highlighted that one-third of the population faces acute food insecurity, with particular vulnerability among children and pregnant or breastfeeding women.
On the diplomatic front, Pakistan has supported a U.S. initiative to recover military equipment left in Afghanistan due to concerns of its use by terrorist groups. Pakistan’s foreign ministry emphasized that while the U.S. reclaiming its weapons is welcomed, it clarified that Islamabad is not actively facilitating this process. Recent tensions arose following the extradition of a Daesh operative back to the U.S. from Pakistan, relating to a significant bombing incident in Kabul during the U.S. withdrawal.
In summary, Afghanistan has demonstrated notable progress in reducing terrorism, as evidenced by its ninth-place ranking in the 2025 Global Terrorism Index. While internal security improvements have been acknowledged, the nation continues to grapple with severe humanitarian challenges. Moreover, ongoing infrastructure developments and diplomatic engagements demonstrate Afghanistan’s multifaceted approach to rebuilding and stabilizing the region, despite lingering tensions with neighboring countries.
Original Source: www.ariananews.af
