Pakistan's Paradox: A 2025 Comeback on the World Stage Masks Deep Cracks at Home

It’s back on the world stage, but its foundation at home is cracking. For Pakistan, 2025 proved to be a turning point. After years of relative obscurity, the country suddenly found itself mattering again in international affairs, even as persistent political and economic instability festered domestically. Four major developments defined this complex picture, highlighting both the opportunities and obstacles Pakistan faced during a turbulent year.

A New Strategic Credibility

Pakistan's return to prominence was sparked by intense, four-day military clashes with India in May. Its air force showcased formidable capabilities, reportedly downing several Indian jets and demonstrating it had effectively countered New Delhi's military modernization despite domestic economic woes. This performance significantly restored Pakistan's strategic credibility. Consequently, relations with the United States warmed, while it also formalized a major mutual defense pact with Saudi Arabia and secured a $4 billion arms deal with Libya.

A Harder Line on Afghanistan

Islamabad also adopted a tougher stance toward Afghanistan, shifting from accommodation to sustained pressure on the Afghan Taliban. The goal: dismantle the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and force Kabul to sever ties with the group. Pakistan's willingness to use hard power, including military strikes on Afghan soil, shocked the Taliban regime. The pressure campaign worked, leading over 1,000 Afghan clerics to issue a decree prohibiting attacks on neighboring countries. It was a clear signal that continued support for the TTP would carry severe diplomatic costs.

Economic Woes and a Privatization Win

Despite diplomatic wins, the economy remained in dire straits. Foreign direct investment declined, and persistent issues like high energy costs and a difficult tax environment hampered industry, contributing to rising poverty. Amid the gloom, there was one bright spot: the successful privatization of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). The sale of the chronically loss-making, state-run enterprise was the first major privatization in around 20 years. The landmark deal could mark a turning point, encouraging greater private sector activity and injecting momentum into the economy.

An Unresolved Political Standoff

Domestically, political tensions persisted. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, led by the jailed Imran Khan, continued its opposition to the military and federal authorities, raising questions about political stability. Khan’s repeated calls for protests from prison only intensified the standoff. On a more positive note, the state took strong measures against the extremist Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), demonstrating a growing intolerance for violent radicalism. Still, broader strains on the social contract, fueled by inflation and inequality, remain a challenge to national cohesion.