The Coalition’s Regional Risks

Traces how emergency alliances and arms flows could destabilize neighboring countries and intensify existing conflicts.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Central Asian Stakes

Central Asian Stakes Chomsky situates Afghanistan within competition over energy resources and possible pipeline routes. A Wider Strategic Map The Gulf and Central Asia matter more to major powers than Afghanistan alone. Political Consequences Security decisions in Afghanistan therefore affect regional governments and their domestic struggles.

Pakistan Under Pressure

Pakistan Under Pressure Pakistan faces American demands while balancing its support for the Taliban, domestic Islamist politics, and promised military assistance. A Risky Role Using Pakistan as a base for operations could provoke internal opposition. Nuclear Stakes Chomsky emphasizes the danger created by regional rivalry involving nuclear-armed states.

The Kashmir Flashpoint

The Kashmir Flashpoint India and Pakistan accuse each other over terrorism and self-determination in Kashmir. Competing Claims Chomsky argues that both states have grounds for grievance and both have engaged in violence. Nuclear Danger The existing record of conflict makes any new crisis especially dangerous.

The Northern Alliance’s Neighbors

The Northern Alliance’s Neighbors The Northern Alliance’s ethnic and political ties concern Pakistan, which sees its leadership as linked to states supporting its regional rivals. Competing Patrons India, Iran, and Russia are among the actors involved in the wider contest. Risk of Expansion A campaign inside Afghanistan can quickly entangle surrounding governments and deepen instability.

Arms and Alliances

Arms and Alliances Governments seek military and financial support by joining the American campaign. A Regional Build-Up Increased weapons flows may strengthen governments and groups involved in local conflicts. Unintended Escalation Rather than stabilizing the region, coalition bargaining can supply tools for further violence.

September 2001

September and October 2001

After September 11, 2001

Autumn 2001

As coalition agreements develop in autumn 2001