Afghanistan, now controlled by the Taliban, has become a hotspot of unexpected developments that could reshape global politics. Despite ongoing U.S. sanctions and a lack of international recognition, the Taliban's control has led to dramatic changes: opium production has plummeted, but ISIS-K remains a persistent threat; tensions with Pakistan and Central Asian countries have risen, while surprising ties with India and potential Russian recognition hint at shifting alliances. Afghanistan’s vast untapped rare earth minerals and strategic position could make it crucial for global trade if it can resolve these internal and external conflicts.

While Afghanistan no longer functions as a US airbase in the Eurasian Heartland, it’s now a source of unconventional threats to the region, but it also has more geostrategic potential than ever before too.

The Taliban returned to power three years ago on 15 August 2021 after capturing Kabul amidst the panicked Western withdrawal ...