Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have escalated Importantly following a series of air strikes conducted by the Pakistani military within Afghan territory. According to official reports, the operations targeted several locations in eastern and south-eastern Afghanistan. The Pakistani Ministry of Information stated that the strikes were carried out on Sunday, specifically aiming at groups responsible for recent terrorist activities within Pakistan. This move marks a significant intensification of cross-border military engagement between the two neighbors.
Objectives and Justification of the Military Operation
Pakistan's Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Attaullah Tarar, confirmed that the military executed intelligence-based, selective operations against the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and seven associated camps. The government in Islamabad maintains that these strikes were a direct response to three major terrorist attacks that occurred in Pakistan since the beginning of Ramadan. Officials emphasized that the state wouldn't allow its security to be compromised by militants operating from across the border.
Geographical Scope of the Air Strikes
Reports from Afghan media, including TOLO News, indicated that the Pakistani military targeted the Barmal and Urgun districts in Paktika province. Also, strikes were reported in the Khogyani, Behsud, and Gani Khel districts of Nangarhar province. While the Pakistani side didn't provide a detailed list of the targeted coordinates, the geographical spread suggests a broad operation across provinces known for militant presence, while local sources reported significant damage to structures in these areas during the overnight operations.
Afghan Government Response and Civilian Impact
The Afghan government has formally protested the military action, labeling it a violation of national sovereignty. Zabiullah Mujahid, the spokesperson for the Afghan administration, stated that Pakistani special military groups entered Afghan airspace and bombed civilian areas. According to Mujahid, the strikes resulted in dozens of casualties, including women and children. The Afghan authorities have accused the Pakistani military of targeting non-combatants to compensate for internal security challenges, a claim that adds further friction to the bilateral relationship.
Escalating Border Tensions and Mutual Accusations
The relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan has been strained by persistent allegations regarding cross-border terrorism. Pakistan has frequently accused the Afghan administration of providing safe havens to TTP militants, who are allegedly using Afghan soil to launch attacks against Pakistani security forces and civilians. Afghanistan has consistently denied these allegations. The recent air strikes represent a critical juncture in these tensions, as both nations grapple with security concerns and the management of their shared border.