Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have intensified following accusations from Afghanistan’s Taliban government that Pakistan launched air strikes in three eastern provinces. The claims involve deadly attacks that reportedly resulted in the deaths of civilians, including nine children and a woman in Khost province. The Pakistani military has firmly denied these allegations, asserting that no air strikes were conducted.
Zabihullah Mujahid, the chief spokesman for the Afghan government, made the accusations public on social media platform X, describing the strikes as “atrocities” and a violation of Afghan territory. He stated that additional attacks occurred in the provinces of Kunar and Paktika, injuring four individuals. Mujahid emphasized that Afghanistan views the defense of its people as a legitimate right and warned that a response would be forthcoming at an appropriate time.
The recent accusations come on the heels of cross-border clashes that erupted in October, when the Afghan government reported that Pakistani drone strikes had targeted Kabul. Responding to the latest claims, Ahmad Sharif Chaudhry, a spokesman for the Pakistani military, categorically rejected the Afghan assertions. He stated, “We do not target and kill civilians,” pointing out that strikes conducted in October aimed at Pakistani Taliban hideouts responsible for increased violence in Pakistan. Chaudhry added, “We announce and acknowledge whenever we carry out such strikes,” during a briefing held in Rawalpindi.
Local Impact and Reactions
In the aftermath of the alleged air strikes, residents in Khost province began sifting through the debris of the destroyed home, searching for belongings. Muhammad Iqbal, a local resident, expressed grief over the death of his cousin’s family, stating, “You see the cruelty with your own eyes.” A local tribal leader, Mer Adam Khan, reported that the attack was executed by a drone around midnight, but the origin and operator of the drone remain unclear. He identified the destroyed home as belonging to a local resident named Shariat Khan, who, according to Khan, had not engaged in any governmental affairs and lived a humble existence.
Despite the rising tensions, a ceasefire brokered by Qatar and Turkey in October appears to be holding, though the situation remains precarious. There has been no immediate response from either Qatar or Turkey regarding the latest developments. In addition, Iran has recently offered to mediate between Pakistan and Afghanistan, indicating its willingness to play a role in reducing tensions. Ali Larijani, the secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, met with Ishaq Dar, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, in Islamabad, following a scheduled visit.
As the situation unfolds, both governments remain at a critical juncture, balancing accusations and the potential for escalating conflict. The international community will be closely monitoring developments in this volatile region, as further incidents could exacerbate already strained relations.
