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4 parts Anything goes between spies in Islamabad
Anything goes between spies in Islamabad.© Stéphane Oiry

Deep Dive | Pakistan
Anything goes between spies in Islamabad

Whether they work for France's DGSE, the CIA or even MI6, many intelligence officers operating in Pakistan have in recent years fallen victim to the ruthless rule of the all-powerful Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), whose influence on domestic politics is stronger than ever. We reveal an ongoing secret war, involving deportations, lynchings, and allegations of radiation exposure and poisoning.

4 partsAnything goes between spies in Islamabad
Anything goes between spies in Islamabad.© Stéphane Oiry

The 'Islamabad syndrome' that poisoned relations between Western and Pakistani spies

At odds over nuclear proliferation but united in the fight against terrorism, Western intelligence agencies have long had a bumpy relationship with Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). For some this has come at a very personal cost.

Part 1 Anything goes between spies in Islamabad.
LogoSubscribers only Agencies, Operations 13.10.2026
Part 1 Anything goes between spies in Islamabad.

From blown covers to honey traps: how Pakistani intelligence puts foreign spies through the wringer

Pakistan's ruthless Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) has mastered the art of putting pressure on the declared representatives of Western intelligence services. From expulsions and blown covers to skilful honey traps and the occasional slap, the ISI stops at nothing.

Part 2 Anything goes between spies in Islamabad (2/4).
LogoSubscribers only Agencies, Back-Door Diplomacy 14.10.2026
Part 2 Anything goes between spies in Islamabad (2/4).

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