Article: https://www.afghanistannews.net/news/267043864/deadly-rocket-attack-rattles-afghan-capital
Analysis
Approximately two dozen rockets were launched this past Saturday against Kabul, Afghanistan. The antagonists are unknown, but there are a few attackers being considered. Currently, the Taliban insurgent group denied their involvement, leading to rising suspicions that the Islamic State may have been responsible. This attack comes at the same time that Afghan rivals have been working on a U.S.- brokered peace deal that is in standstill. This attack poses another possible setback. The U.S ambassador in Kabul has publicly condemned this act of violence, insisting the U.S. will continue to support Afghanistan.
This will have lasting impacts in the region because these attacks come at a fragile time for Afghanistan. Recently, meetings with international donors have not had much hope. Afghanistan has a reliance on foreign aid, but states like the U.S. are likely to decrease funding to allocate funding for domestic relief. There are many possible consequences: food scarcity, even higher unemployment, and massive immigration. If the U.S. and NATO troops remain, however, the Afghan military and security will likely continue to receive funding. However, if there are cuts in funding there will likely be a withdrawal of foreign troops. An attack on top of all of this uncertainty will only add stress to an already contentious situation.
This is an example of the collective goods problem and reciprocity. Afghanistan is receiving significant benefit from aligning with the U.S. . However, the U.S. may no longer be benefiting from funding Afghanistan. As soon as the country’s interest shifts, the funding will decrease and Afghanistan could suffer a severe economic depression. The U.S. does have the power to use the dominance tactic against those who oppose Afghanistan, but the issue remains of creating additional enemies. However, it is unlikely that anyone has the stance to compete with their military strength. Similar to a realist perspective, the states are prioritizing their self-interest and domestic survival first.