Karzai's Bold Refusal to America

America wants the forces remaining in Afghanistan after the evacuation to be given authority to conduct unilateral operations and raids. They should also be given immunity from any Afghan judicial proceedings following such operations. Hamid Karzai’s administration is remaining firm in its stance regarding provision of immunity to U.S. forces. It says that under this agreement, the U.S. wants the authority to conduct operations at any time, without permission, which can become a hazard for both the Afghan people and the Afghan government. Hamid Karzai’s government is not only weak, but it is also completely dependent on the U.S. Despite this, it has taken a principled stand on a national issue.

The U.S. had promised to evacuate from Afghanistan in 2014; nevertheless, it secured approval for maintaining thousands of troops in Afghanistan even after 2014, under an agreement with the Afghan government. Perhaps it was because of the fear of the Taliban coming into power again that the Afghan government gave this approval.

If Karzai loves his country, then he should ensure complete evacuation of foreign forces for the sake of lasting peace in Afghanistan and in the region.

The U.S. needs to evaluate matters realistically and evacuate its forces completely from Afghanistan next year, in accordance with its promise. Its 10,000 to 12,000 troops remaining behind in Afghanistan after evacuation, rather than maintaining a grasp over Afghanistan, will themselves be insecure.

In any case, the manner in which Hamid Karzai has dispelled the impression that he agrees to everything America says should be a lesson for our leaders. Despite the fact that Pakistan is an independent country, we are unable to form a solid and strong foreign policy and, up to now, have not been able to put an end to drone attacks, which are trampling our autonomy, integrity and prestige.