
Amid rising security concerns in Pakistan’s Balochistan province, the government has taken an unusual stance by blaming the surge in terrorism on the influx of expensive ‘Kabul Tea.’ The Pakistani government has alleged that the illegal tea smuggling from Afghanistan is funding militant activities, leading to a rise in violence in the region.
Balochistan, which has long been a hotbed for insurgency and terror attacks, is facing increasing instability, with both domestic and foreign militants believed to be operating in the region. The government claims that the profits generated from the sale of smuggled Kabul Tea are being funneled into terrorist networks, further complicating an already fragile security situation.
Experts, however, remain skeptical of this explanation, pointing instead to deeper-rooted issues like political instability, economic challenges, and external interference in the region. While smuggling does contribute to an underground economy, many argue that the government should focus on addressing systemic problems rather than scapegoating the tea trade. Regardless, the government’s narrative adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing security woes in Balochistan.