Brig. (Retd.) Said Nazir (Defense Analyst): Whatever happened in Afghanistan was unexpected for the Afghan Taliban as well. The country where a super power remained for 20 years was easily captured by Taliban once again without any bloodshed and with very minimum resistance from Afghan forces. This time Taliban have come up with a positive mind set and maturity. Even the peace spoilers were not anticipating this attitude from the Taliban. India faced a heavy loss in its investments in Afghanistan after take over of Taliban. New Delhi's growing frustration and anti-Pakistan hysteria with reference to recent developments in Afghanistan is quite understandable. The emerging political scenario in Afghanistan, with Taliban dominance, has certainly inflicted an astounding thud to India's hegemonic designs in the region.

Major Gen. (Retd.) Ejaz Awan (Defence Expert): I think Taliban are trying to counteract propaganda against them by adopting moderate policies. They are in a very resource rich country and most of it is still unexploited. Trade opportunities are going to open up between Central and South Asia through Afghanistan. Peace in Afghanistan will benefit the people of that country. Afghanistan is a landlocked country and they are aware of this reality. That is why they would like to create balanced relations with all their neighbors. Afghanistan has been a battleground of major powers since long. The US after spending twenty years in Afghanistan had to ultimately leave without any success. China has enough money to invest in Afghanistan, while Russia also wants stability in Afghanistan. I hope Afghanistan does not become battleground of major powers again. 

Dr. Muhammad Sajjad (Religious Scholar): The martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (May Allah be pleased with him) is a lesson for everyone to never refrain from fighting against terrorism, extremism and intolerant ideology and emphasizes on promoting affinity and brotherhood. Youm-e-Ashur reminds of the great sacrifices of the martyrs of Karbala which were rendered for upholding the supremacy of truth and Islam. Hazrat Imam Hussain proved, with his immortal sacrifice, that whenever such a situation takes place, truth always makes a lasting success. This example of steadfastness and persistence is a guiding principle for our lives. We should re-emphasize our commitment today to follow the golden principles of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) in our lives. It was not an incident of martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) only but also a part of the blessed life of Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH).