Islamabad : The book launch event for “The Lost War: Why the Taliban Re-emerged to Claim Victory in Afghanistan,” authored by Brigadier Ishaq Ahmed Khattak (Retd), hosted by the Institute of Regional Studies (IRS) and Pakistan House, drew significant attention. The author shared insights into his journey of documenting the complexities of the US invasion and the Taliban’s resurgence. His interest in Afghan affairs was sparked during his posting in Peshawar in 1998, leading to a profound understanding of the region’s culture and history.
Amb Jauhar Saleem, President of IRS, highlighted the ongoing challenges of achieving peace in Afghanistan post-US withdrawal. He emphasized that “The Lost War” is more than a historical account; it offers crucial lessons for fostering lasting peace in the region, particularly pertinent for Pakistan and global security.
Muhammad Athar Javed, DG Pakistan House, acknowledged Pakistan’s unrecognized sacrifices in the global war on terrorism. He praised the book for its natural portrayal of events during the peak of NATO’s mission, without oversimplifying or undermining any country involved.
Ambassador Asif Durrani, special envoy to Afghanistan, appreciated the book’s realistic assessment of the factors behind the Taliban’s resurgence. He pointed out that governance issues under Afghan administrations and the US’s failure to promote reconciliation were key factors in the prolonged crisis.
The event concluded with remarks from Lt. Gen (r) Asif Yasin Malik and other distinguished speakers, who commended the author’s ability to link historical events to present-day issues. The book was recognized as a valuable resource for a wide audience, offering insights and suggestions for future actions regarding Afghan security challenges. The launch attracted diplomats, researchers, students, and journalists, highlighting the book’s broad appeal and relevance.
