Pakistan's support for Haqqani Network has increased: US think tank

Islamabad, Mar 20 (ANI): Pakistan's support for the Haqqani terror Network has increased, through both facilitating additional sanctuary and providing strategic and operational guidance, the US-based Institute for the War Studies (IWS) has said.

A report titled 'The Haqqani Network -A Strategic Threat' claims that the Haqqanis and the IMU execute targeted assassinations of northern powerbrokers who are affiliated with the Jamiat-e-Islami Party. These assassinations are meant to undermine the Jamiat and the influence of minority powerbrokers, who are historical rivals to the Pashtuns and the Pakistani state.

The report further claimed that the group, also enjoying ties to Al-Qaeda and its affiliates, is not reconcilable. They also do not fully follow the guidance of the Quetta Shura of Taliban, because they maintain a separate power base and leadership structure, The Nation reports.

The Haqqanis have also increased operational reach and jihadist credentials over the past several years toward the Quetta Shura's historical strongholds in southern Afghanistan and the areas surrounding Kabul.

The report calls for a sustained, well-resourced offensive against the Haqqani network inside of Afghanistan, saying the campaign would likely require at least two adequately-resourced fighting seasons. (ANI)