Hamid Gul

Hamid Gul was a prominent Pakistani military general and head of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) during the 1980s, known for his significant role in shaping Pakistan's policies in Afghanistan, particularly during the Soviet-Afghan War. He was a key architect of the strategy that supported the Afghan Mujahideen against Soviet forces, viewing the conflict as a means to counter Indian influence in the region. Gul's tenure was marked by controversial alliances and a strong belief in using jihadist elements as tools of state policy, which later contributed to the rise of extremism within Pakistan. His legacy remains contentious, as he is often associated with the establishment's complex and turbulent relationship with Afghanistan, particularly in light of the ongoing repercussions of these policies.