Pakistani airstrikes have once again targeted Afghan territory, specifically the Paktika province, thereby violating a critical two-day ceasefire. The bombing raids, which struck residential areas in the Argun and Barmal districts on Friday evening, shattered the fragile peace that had been established just two days earlier to quell escalating border violence. Taliban officials have acknowledged the attacks, stating that Pakistan broke the agreed-upon truce.
The ceasefire’s collapse, happening just hours before its planned conclusion, has jeopardized any potential for de-escalation or diplomatic talks to address the root causes of the conflict. The 48-hour pause in hostilities began on Wednesday evening, following a week of intense fighting that had led to significant casualties on both sides, including civilian populations caught in the crossfire.
Contrary to the renewed violence, earlier reports on Friday suggested that both nations might consider extending the ceasefire, fueling cautious optimism for a diplomatic path forward. However, these hopes were dashed as Pakistani aircraft were reported to have entered Afghan airspace. The current tensions escalated following Pakistani airstrikes in Kabul on October 9, 2025, aimed at a TTP leader after a series of TTP attacks on Pakistani soldiers. This led to retaliatory measures by the Afghan Taliban, intensifying border skirmishes. The conflict is intrinsically linked to the disputed Durand Line and cross-border militant activities, with Pakistan accusing Afghanistan of harboring militants and Afghanistan accusing Pakistan of violating its airspace and sovereignty.