Experts Raise Concerns Over Foreign Fighters in Afghanistan Heightening Regional Security Risks

The growing presence of foreign fighters in Afghanistan, particularly those of Central Asian origin, is raising alarm among regional political elites and neighboring countries, an article by Hasht-e-Subh Daily reported.

According to a recent report by India’s The Economic Times, Syrian fighters linked to Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) have been relocated to Afghan provinces including Badakhshan, Baghlan, and Herat. This development has intensified concerns in Central Asia and India about regional stability and security.

Experts warn that many of these fighters, who previously fought in Syria and Iraq, could destabilize Central Asian republics such as Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan. The latter has reportedly thwarted two coup attempts linked to foreign elements in early 2025. Tajikistan faces direct threats from ISIS, which recently released a video targeting its government, prompting joint anti-terrorism exercises with Russia.

The Taliban maintain that no threats emanate from Afghan soil, but regional countries remain skeptical. Reports indicate ISIS is training in Pakistan’s Balochistan province, potentially with military support. Groups like Hizb ut-Tahrir are expanding influence into Kyrgyzstan, while the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU) also poses a concern.

UN Security Council reports detail the Taliban’s tolerance of al-Qaeda, Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, and East Turkestan Islamic Movement, which operate training camps across Afghanistan. These groups reportedly collaborate to train fighters targeting Central Asia.

Meanwhile, the illicit arms trade flourishes under Taliban control, further complicating regional security. Central Asian states are strengthening border controls through organizations like CSTO and SCO to counter these threats.