ISLAMABAD — The United States has expressed support for Pakistan’s right to defend itself amid ongoing cross-border hostilities with the Afghan Taliban, according to Radio Pakistan.
US Undersecretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker spoke by phone with Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch to convey condolences over lives lost in the recent clashes. Hooker shared details of the conversation in a statement posted on social media.
“Spoke today with Pakistan Foreign Secretary Baloch to express condolences for lives lost in the recent conflict between Pakistan and the Taliban,” Hooker said. She added that Washington continues to monitor the evolving security situation closely.
Moreover, Hooker reaffirmed Washington’s backing of Pakistan’s right to self-defence against Taliban attacks. “We expressed support for Pakistan’s right to defend itself against Taliban attacks,” she stated.
The remarks come as tensions escalate along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. In recent days, Pakistani security forces have launched retaliatory strikes against militant positions inside Afghanistan following what officials described as cross-border aggression.
Meanwhile, diplomatic channels remain active as both regional and international stakeholders watch developments carefully. The United States has not indicated any direct involvement in the conflict but emphasized its concern over stability in the region.
Furthermore, the statement underscores Washington’s broader security partnership with Islamabad at a time of heightened volatility. Analysts say the US position signals political backing for Pakistan’s defensive actions while encouraging close monitoring of further escalation.
As hostilities persist, officials on both sides of the border face mounting pressure to prevent the situation from spiraling into a wider confrontation.
