Pakistan conducted airstrikes along the Afghan border to target alleged hideouts of Pakistani militants responsible for recent attacks within Pakistan. The Afghan Red Crescent Society reported over a dozen casualties from the strikes.
The locations targeted by Pakistan were not specified, but the Afghan Defence Ministry stated that civilian areas in Nangarhar and Paktika provinces were hit, including a religious school and multiple homes. Afghanistan denounced the airstrikes as a violation of its airspace and sovereignty.
According to Afghan officials, the attacks resulted in casualties, including women and children. The Afghan Red Crescent Society confirmed 18 fatalities and several injuries in Nangarhar province.
Pakistan’s information minister announced that the military conducted intelligence-based operations against seven camps of the Pakistani Taliban and affiliated groups, including an Islamic State affiliate. While emphasizing Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace, the minister highlighted the priority of ensuring the safety of Pakistani citizens.
The surge in militant violence in Pakistan, attributed to groups like the Pakistani Taliban and Baloch separatists, has heightened tensions. The Pakistani government accuses the Pakistani Taliban of operating from Afghanistan, a claim denied by both the group and Kabul.
Prior to the airstrikes, suicide bombers targeted security forces in Bannu district, resulting in casualties. Pakistan’s military vowed to retaliate against those responsible for the attacks. Another suicide bombing in Bajaur district claimed lives, with the attacker identified as an Afghan national.
Pakistan presented evidence linking recent attacks, including a deadly mosque bombing, to militants directed from Afghanistan. The government urged the Afghan Taliban leadership to prevent cross-border attacks and called on the international community to hold them accountable under the Doha agreement.
Following border clashes and mutual accusations, a ceasefire mediated by Qatar was agreed upon between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Despite ongoing discussions, formal agreements have not been reached, and tensions persist between the two nations.
