For Bangladesh, supporting Pakistan subtly advances "Bangladesh First" by fostering a South Asian balance of power. It navigates through turbulent waters amidst India-Pakistan hostility, China-India rivalry, amid Teesta disputes, and Sheikh Hasina's extradition demands.

Retaliatory strikes expose structural tensions that could destabilise South Asia for years

Pakistan security sources said strikes involved air and ground attacks against Taliban posts, headquarters, and ammunition depots