OxusWatch Logo

Publications & Mentions

Explore authored works and news features. Use the tabs below to navigate.

Authored analysis reports, research papers, and articles for various publications.

Islamic State’s Pakistan Province Launches New Jihadist Magazine

The Islamic State's Pakistan Province (ISkP) has launched its first Urdu-language magazine, Yalghar, as a new propaganda effort. The magazine aims to recruit support and criticizes rival groups, highlighting its strategic importance for IS-P's outreach.

June 4, 2021

Published in: The Jamestown Foundation

Read More

An In-Depth Portrait of a Pakistani Taliban Founding Father: Umar Khalid Khurasani

The article provides an in-depth portrait of Umar Khalid Khurasani, a founding father of the Pakistani Taliban (TTP). It highlights his influential role, particularly in August 2020 when his group joined the TTP alongside other jihadist factions.

May 4, 2021

Published in: The Jamestown Foundation

Read More

The Revival of the Pakistani Taliban

The Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has resurged as a significant threat, marked by a 2021 bomb attack in Quetta. Under Noor Wali Mehsud’s leadership, the group has reunited splinter factions and reduced violence against civilians. TTP is now focused on a long-term struggle against the Pakistani state while broadening its support base.

April 21, 2021

Published in: Combating Terrorism Center

Read More

How To Deal With ISIS’ Affiliate in Afghanistan

This article discusses the Islamic State Khorasan (ISK) and strategies for the Biden administration to counter them. It also examines the impact of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan on ISK's activities.

March 10, 2021

Published in: Instick Media

Read More

The mysterious case of Shaikh Abdul Rahim Muslim Dost – the ISKP founder

The article explores the enigmatic figure of Shaikh Abdul Rahim Muslim Dost, known as a founder of Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP). It delves into his background and militant history, shedding light on his significant role in the group's origins.

February 15, 2021

Published in: The Jamestown Foundation

Read More

Smaller and Smarter: Defining a Narrower U.S. Counterterrorism Mission in the Af-Pak Region

The article advocates for a more focused and effective U.S. counterterrorism strategy in Afghanistan and Pakistan, emphasizing cooperation, coherence, and compassion. It stresses adapting to the evolving militant landscape and aligning counterterrorism efforts with broader regional priorities.

February 11, 2021

Published in: Newlines Institute

Read More

The Jihadists’ War in Pakistan after the U.S. Withdrawal from Afghanistan: Lessons from Al-Qaeda’s Assassination of Benazir Bhutto

The article analyzes the persistent jihadist war in Pakistan, rooted in the nation's complex politics, even after the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. It draws lessons from Benazir Bhutto's assassination to illustrate the enduring threat of anti-state jihadist violence.

January 29, 2021

Published in: The Jamestown Foundation

Read More

Why ISP remains unsuccessful in attracting the anti-Shia Sunni sectarian militants to its ranks? (اردو)

The Pakistani branch of the global extremist organization, the so-called Islamic State (ISIS), recently broadcast an audio message regarding the brutal killing of 11 coal miners from the Hazara community in the Mach area of Balochistan province.

January 15, 2021

Published in: BBC

Read More

Waziristan Militant Leader Aleem Khan Ustad Joins Tehreek-e-Taliban

The article details the significant merger of Waziristan militant leader Mulawi Aleem Khan Ustad's group into Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). This move marks a setback for the Pakistani Army and strengthens TTP's organizational power through various jihadist faction mergers.

January 5, 2021

Published in: The Jamestown Foundation

Read More

The Future of al-Qaeda in Afghanistan & Pakistan

The article explores the future of Al-Qaeda in Afghanistan and Pakistan, emphasizing the enduring alliance between Al-Qaeda and the Taliban. It highlights how this relationship, exemplified by the Taliban sheltering Al-Qaeda leaders, strengthens both groups and poses challenges for regional stability, especially following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

December 17, 2020

Published in: Newlines Institute

Read More

Islamic State Khorasan Province’s Peshawar Seminary Attack and War Against Afghan Taliban Hanafis

The article analyzes the Islamic State Khorasan Province's (IS-K) Peshawar seminary attack, framing it within the Salafist-Hanafi sectarian rivalry. It highlights IS-K's targeting of pro-Afghan Taliban institutions and scholars, escalating sectarian terrorism in Pakistan.

November 20, 2020

Published in: The Jamestown Institute

Read More

Who was the deputy head of AQIS, Haneef aka Zarar killed in Afghanistan? (اردو)

Afghan security agencies claim to have killed Muhammad Hanif, also known as Zarrar, the deputy head of Al-Qaeda's South Asia branch, Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS), in Bakwa district of Farah province, Afghanistan.

November 16, 2020

Published in: BBC

Read More