Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have escalated dramatically after Pakistani airstrikes targeted areas along their volatile border. Kabul accuses Islamabad of bombing civilian neighborhoods, resulting in numerous deaths including women and children. The strikes hit Nangarhar and Paktika provinces late last night, according to Afghan officials.
Afghanistan’s government spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, took to social media to condemn the attacks. ‘They bombed our civilians in Nangarhar and Paktika, killing and injuring dozens, including women and children,’ he posted. Reports indicate heavy casualties in residential zones, sparking outrage across the region.
Pakistan, however, defends the operation as a precise intelligence-driven assault on terrorist camps. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar confirmed on X that seven camps linked to the Pakistani Taliban and allies were destroyed. He highlighted the targeting of an Islamic State affiliate responsible for a recent deadly mosque blast in Islamabad that claimed 31 lives and injured over 160.
The Pakistani military issued a separate statement expressing frustration with the Afghan Taliban’s inability to curb cross-border terrorism. Despite repeated diplomatic appeals, Kabul has failed to act against groups using Afghan soil for attacks inside Pakistan, they claim. ‘Citizen safety remains our top priority while striving for regional peace,’ the statement read.
This incident marks another flashpoint in a deteriorating relationship since the Taliban seized power in 2021. Frequent border clashes and mutual accusations of harboring militants have poisoned ties. Pakistan insists Afghan territory shelters terrorists plotting against it, while Kabul denies any complicity.
As both sides dig in, fears grow of a wider conflict destabilizing South Asia. International observers urge restraint and dialogue to prevent further bloodshed.