Another 'victim card' played by Afghan Taliban

A massive fire broke out early Saturday at around 4am in the Afghan-side market at Torkham, reducing more than 150 shops to ashes.

According to sources, the fire was set by the Taliban to stage a narrative of a cross-border incident and portray themselves as victims. Several traders reported suspicious movements of armed Afghan personnel in the area shortly before the fire broke out.

Afghanistan is aware that Pakistan does not carry out attacks from behind. Observers say such allegations appear intended to tarnish Pakistan's image internationally.

Initial reports suggest that the blaze spread rapidly and continued for several hours, causing extensive damage. The estimated losses are said to be nearly 300 million Afghanis, primarily affecting traders operating in the market.

Security analysts suggest that playing the "victim card" has long been a strategy of the Taliban, adding that whenever they face internal pressure, they attempt to deflect public anger through propaganda and by blaming Pakistan.

The fire continued for several hours, yet the level of firefighting effort required to protect such a major commercial hub was not visibly apparent. This has raised questions about the response to the blaze and the overall handling of the incident.