Tensions Escalate as Pakistan, Afghanistan in Retaliatory Airstrikes

By Momodu Favour

Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have sharply escalated following reports of cross-border airstrikes and strong warnings from both sides, raising fears of a broader military confrontation.

Authorities in Afghanistan, led by the Taliban, accused Pakistan of launching fighter jet strikes on multiple provinces, alleging that the attacks were carried out indiscriminately and resulted in civilian casualties.

Afghan officials condemned the strikes as a violation of the country’s sovereignty and warned of consequences if the bombardment continues.

In response, Pakistani authorities defended the air operations, stating that the strikes are targeted at what they described as terrorist launchpads operating from Afghan territory.

Officials in Islamabad insisted that their military action is aimed at dismantling militant networks responsible for cross-border attacks inside Pakistan.

They vowed that operations would continue “until the last terrorist is neutralised.”

The development marks one of the most serious escalations in recent years between the two neighbouring countries, whose relations have remained fragile since the Taliban returned to power in Kabul in 2021.

Pakistan has repeatedly accused Afghan-based militants of staging attacks across the border, a claim the Taliban-led administration has often denied.

Security analysts warn that sustained airstrikes and retaliatory measures could destabilise the wider region, particularly along the volatile border areas where militant activity has long been a concern.

As of press time, there has been no independent confirmation of the scale of casualties or damage from the reported strikes.

Diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions are expected to intensify amid growing international concern over the possibility of a prolonged conflict.