Pakistani Strikes Leave Civilians Dead
The government of Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (the Taliban) has accused Pakistan of launching overnight air and drone strikes on Afghan territory — specifically in the eastern provinces of Khost, Kunar and Paktika. According to Afghan officials, the strikes killed at least 10 civilians, including nine children and one woman. Residents in affected areas reported damage to homes and described the scenes of destruction and grief.
Taliban Condemns the Attacks and Issues a Warning
In response to the incident, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid termed the strikes a “crime” and a “blatant violation of Afghan airspace”, asserting that Afghanistan has the “legitimate right” to defend its territory. He added that the Islamic Emirate “will respond appropriately at the right time.” While the statement falls short of specifying the nature or timing of retaliation, it signals a potential shift towards escalation.
Pakistan’s Side of the Story
Pakistan’s military has categorically denied conducting air operations inside Afghanistan on this occasion. In a media statement, the Pakistani army spokesman called the accusations “baseless” and reaffirmed that Pakistan has not attacked its neighbour. The denials deepen the diplomatic standoff, leaving questions over attribution, verification and possible clandestine operations.
Border Dynamics and Regional Implications
- The latest strikes occur against the backdrop of a fragile ceasefire signed in October, under the mediation of Qatar and Turkey, between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
- Pakistan has repeatedly blamed Afghan territory for being used by the Tehreek‑e‑Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other militant groups launching attacks inside Pakistan, while Kabul denies such claims.
- The renewed hostilities threaten to undo recent attempts at border de‑escalation and may impact trade, refugee flow and diplomatic ties along the 2,600‑km frontier.
What To Watch Going Forward
- Retaliation risk: Although the Taliban has not declared specific military action yet, the warning raises the possibility of strikes or other cross‑border operations.
- Diplomatic fallout: Pakistan may respond with its own diplomatic or military measures, which could further sabotage the truce and lead to renewed border skirmishes.
- Impact on civilians: Further violence along the border regions could displace more families, disrupt trade and deepen humanitarian concerns.
- Third‑party mediation: The role of Qatar and Turkey may become crucial again in trying to reinstate the ceasefire and prevent a broader escalation.
Final Word
The killing of civilians in the strikes and the Taliban’s vow to respond mark a significant escalation in Pakistan‑Afghanistan tensions. It brings back into focus the fragility of peace efforts and the high stakes at play on both sides of the border. If diplomacy does not quickly re‑assert itself, the region may face a new chapter of cross‑border confrontation — with serious implications for stability in South Asia.
