Global Terrorism Index 2026: Afghanistan to 11th as Casualties Decline
The latest Global Terrorism Index 2026 report shows that Pakistan ranks at the top among countries most affected by terrorist incidents, while Afghanistan stands in 11th place on the list.
According to the report, Afghanistan has dropped two positions compared to last year, and terrorism-related casualties in the country have declined over the long term.
The report adds that the largest reductions in terrorism-related deaths since 2007 have been recorded in Iraq and Afghanistan, with decreases of 99% in Iraq and 95% in Afghanistan.
A section of the report states: “The largest percentage falls in terrorist activity since 2007 have occurred in Iraq and Afghanistan, with deaths from terrorism in these countries falling by 99 and 95 percent respectively.”
Political analyst Moeen Gul Samkani said: “Afghans have gradually realized the need to confront terrorism, and a government is now in place that has control over all of Afghanistan’s territory.”
The report also highlights the activities of militant groups along the hypothetical Durand Line between Afghanistan and Pakistan, noting that this situation was one of the factors behind rising tensions that escalated into open confrontation between the two countries in February 2026.
It warns that any conflict between Afghanistan and Pakistan could lead to population displacement, weakened control, and the creation of security vacuums along the hypothetical Durand Line, conditions that groups such as ISIS-K could exploit.
The report states: “Open conflict between the two countries is likely to displace populations, weaken border controls, and create the security vacuums in which groups like the TTP and ISKP have historically thrived.”
Another political analyst, Enayatullah Hamaam, said: “Such groups tend to establish themselves in areas where government influence is minimal. If clashes occur between the two countries, it creates opportunities for them.”
In response, the spokesperson of the Islamic Emirate stated that all anti-security activities in the country are under control.
Zabihullah Mujahid assured that Afghanistan is a secure and stable country and will never allow its territory to be used against others.
He added: “What we can clearly say is that Afghanistan is secure, stable, and has strong security forces, and we have effectively controlled all anti-security movements.”
According to the report, after Pakistan, the countries most affected by terrorism are Burkina Faso, Niger, Nigeria, Mali, Syria, Somalia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Colombia, and Israel.
At the same time, the Global Terrorism Index report emphasizes that terrorism remains a serious global threat. In 2025 alone, a total of 5,582 people were killed in 2,944 terrorist incidents worldwide.
