Kabul Reports Casualties Across Three Provinces
The Afghan Taliban government on Wednesday claimed that Pakistani air strikes killed at least 13 people, including 11 children, in eastern Afghanistan, marking a fresh escalation in tensions between the neighbouring countries.
Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said the strikes targeted areas in the provinces of Kunar, Khost, and Paktika. According to Afghan authorities, at least 14 additional people, including women and children, were injured during the attacks.
Mujahid condemned the operation and accused Pakistan of carrying out strikes that resulted in civilian casualties. Afghan officials said emergency teams were assessing the affected areas while local authorities worked to assist injured residents.
However, independent verification of the reported casualty figures was not immediately available.
Meanwhile, Pakistani military and government officials did not issue an official public statement following the allegations.
Islamabad Cites Security Concerns Amid Renewed Border Tensions
Despite the absence of an official response, Pakistani security officials told Reuters that the operation targeted locations allegedly used by militants responsible for carrying out attacks inside Pakistan.
Islamabad has repeatedly accused authorities in Kabul of allowing armed groups to operate from Afghan territory and launch cross-border attacks. The Taliban government has consistently rejected those allegations, insisting that Afghan soil is not being used against neighbouring countries.
The latest developments threaten to undermine a fragile ceasefire reached earlier this year after a period of intense clashes along the border. Pakistan and Afghanistan experienced some of their most serious military confrontations in recent years during fighting that erupted in February.
Subsequently, both sides agreed to a ceasefire in March following diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions. China played a mediating role in encouraging dialogue between the two governments and promoting regional stability.
Nevertheless, the renewed exchange of accusations and military activity has raised concerns about a possible deterioration in relations. Analysts warn that continued hostilities could further complicate efforts to maintain peace and address longstanding security disputes between Islamabad and Kabul.
As tensions rise, regional observers continue to monitor developments closely for signs of either de-escalation or further conflict.
