Afghanistan announced on Wednesday that Pakistan launched new airstrikes targeting its territory, resulting in at least 13 deaths and 14 injuries. The strikes were reported by Taliban chief spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid, who stated that the attacks targeted the Afghan provinces of Khost, Kunar, and Paktika.
Casualties and Damage
According to Mujahid, the airstrikes killed 11 children, one woman, and one elderly man. The strikes also wounded 14 other individuals. The Taliban official condemned the attacks, calling them a violation of Afghan sovereignty.
Pakistan's Response
As of now, there has been no official acknowledgment or comment from Pakistan regarding the airstrikes. This silence follows a pattern of escalating tensions between the two neighboring countries.
Background of Conflict
Pakistan and Afghanistan have been engaged in months of deadly clashes since late February 2026. The violence escalated after Afghanistan launched a cross-border attack on Pakistan in retaliation for previous Pakistani airstrikes inside Afghan territory. Hundreds of people have died in the ongoing hostilities.
Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of harboring militants, particularly the Pakistani Taliban, known as Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The TTP is a separate group but allied with the Afghan Taliban, which has ruled Afghanistan since seizing power in 2021 following the chaotic withdrawal of US-led forces. Kabul denies these allegations.
International Concerns
The repeated airstrikes and cross-border attacks have raised international concerns about regional stability. Both nations have a history of strained relations, and the recent violence threatens to further destabilize the region.
