AFGHANISTAN has evolved from a post-conflict state into a strategic sanctuary for transnational terrorist organizations, with consequences that extend far beyond South Asia.

At the forefront of this transformation is the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP), whose senior leadership operates from Afghan territory while maintaining operational, logistical, and personnel linkages across Syria, Africa, and other conflict zones. The sustained presence of ISKP leaders in Afghanistan reflects a calculated strategic shift, highlighting the country’s growing importance in global terrorist networks.

Sanaullah Ghafari, also known as Shahab al-Muhajir, currently leads ISKP from Afghan soil. Analysts note that Afghanistan offers unique advantages for command and control: relative freedom of movement, limited international oversight, and operational flexibility. In contrast to Syria or Iraq—where senior leadership faces constant military pressure—Afghanistan provides a........

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