Islamabad: Pakistan’s military continued extensive airstrikes across Afghanistan on Saturday, escalating its campaign under Operation Ghazab Lil Haq, according to 24NewsHD. The bombardment followed a cross-border attack on Pakistani troops Thursday night, prompting Islamabad to declare a state of “war” with its neighbor.
The Pakistan Armed Forces said fighter jets targeted nearly three dozen locations, striking posts and camps linked to the Afghan Taliban government. Security sources reported that 297 Taliban fighters were killed and more than 450 injured. In addition, Pakistani forces destroyed about 135 tanks and armored vehicles, leveled nearly 100 posts, and captured 18 positions.
Moreover, troops seized New Afghan Post 8 and Delta Post in the Zauba Sector before demolishing them. They also damaged positions in Khyber, Naushki, Top Jirga Thana, Omari Camp, and Kandkasi base. The military further claimed it destroyed the Military Aryana Complex, police headquarters, Dabgai Checkpost, and Zakirkhail post.
Meanwhile, Britain, the United Nations, and the International Committee of the Red Cross urged immediate de-escalation. Diplomats in China, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar initiated efforts to ease tensions. The United States expressed support for Pakistan’s right to defend itself against Taliban attacks, according to a statement posted by a senior State Department official.
The strikes marked Pakistan’s broadest offensive since the Taliban returned to power in 2021, including attacks on Kandahar and Kabul. Islamabad reported 12 Pakistani soldiers killed in earlier fighting.
Furthermore, relations have deteriorated sharply in recent months. Pakistan accuses Kabul of harboring militants from Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, a claim the Taliban denies. Despite previous ceasefires brokered by Qatar and Turkey, negotiations have failed to secure lasting peace.
