In an unprecedented move, Pakistan conducted airstrikes on suspected Pakistani Taliban (TTP) hideouts in Afghanistan’s Paktika province on Tuesday, killing 46 individuals and reportedly dismantling a training facility. The strikes targeted a mountainous area near the border, raising significant concerns over cross-border tensions.
Pakistani security officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, confirmed the operation but refrained from disclosing whether the strikes penetrated deep into Afghan territory. The Afghan Defense Ministry condemned the attacks, accusing Pakistan of targeting civilians, including women and children, and labeling the airstrikes as a “brutal act” and a violation of international principles.
In a post on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the Afghan Defense Ministry warned Pakistan against unilateral actions, calling them counterproductive. “The Islamic Emirate will not leave this cowardly act unanswered but rather considers the defense of its territory to be its inalienable right,” it said.
The timing of the strikes, occurring hours after Pakistan’s special envoy for Afghanistan, Mohammad Sadiq, held talks in Kabul, has drawn criticism and speculation. Afghanistan’s government and residents have expressed outrage, with the death toll potentially rising as investigations continue.
Pakistan has accused the TTP of using Afghan territory as a base for planning attacks on its soil. The Afghan government denies harboring the TTP and has advocated for dialogue rather than military action.
The airstrikes have significantly increased tensions between the two nations and pose a serious threat to diplomatic efforts to enhance regional stability. As accusations and counteraccusations escalate, both countries are under increasing international pressure to manage the fallout and prevent their fragile relationship from deteriorating further.
