Maria Imran 
Weapons abandoned by the US weapons left in Afghanistan have reportedly been seized by militant groups that target Pakistan, raising serious concern over the regional security ramifications of the 2021 US withdrawal. Reports attributed to international investigations and monitoring bodies indicate that equipment originally supplied to Afghanistan’s former security forces has made its way to illicit markets or into the hands of armed groups, including Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
US Weapons Left In Afghanistan Raise Pakistan Security Concerns
The magnitude of the abandoned equipment is still a big issue. Estimates say the value of military hardware left behind is around $7.1 billion, including firearms, military vehicles and surveillance equipment, the reports say. The reported proliferation underlines the need to trace weapons, improve border security and keep military supplies away from terrorist groups.
Some of the gear is believed to have ended up in the hands of militant groups through black arms markets and alleged shipments by individuals working in Afghanistan. The investigations have also looked into whether weapons found in militant incidents can be traced to stocks originally supplied to Afghan security forces, but individual claims need to be substantiated with credible evidence.
Optics, including night-vision goggles and thermal sights that can improve the ability of militants to operate in low-light conditions, are of particular concern. Stopping these weapons from crossing the border is an important part of protecting security personnel and communities exposed to cross-border violence in Pakistan.
Pakistan Calls For Stronger Regional Security
Pakistan has repeatedly expressed concerns over militants operating from Afghan soil and has demanded effective action to curb attacks. Islamabad’s priorities include better border management, intelligence cooperation and steps to halt the illegal flow of weapons to terrorist organisations.
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