Escalation of Tensions Between Afghanistan and Pakistan
The ongoing tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan have intensified due to cross-border airstrikes and military operations along the disputed Durand Line.
Afghanistan's Military Response
- The Afghan Ministry of Defence announced retaliatory operations against Pakistani military posts, claiming the operations ended at midnight as ordered by Chief of Army Staff Fasihuddin Fitrat.
- In retaliation for Pakistani airstrikes, Afghan officials claim they killed up to 55 Pakistani soldiers, captured two headquarters, 19 check posts, and took several soldiers prisoner.
- Afghan casualties were reported as eight soldiers killed and 11 wounded.
Pakistan's Reaction
- Pakistan has rejected Afghan claims, stating that only two Pakistani soldiers were killed and three wounded, with no posts captured.
- Pakistan described Afghanistan's actions as “unprovoked”.
- Pakistan's airstrikes targeted TTP training camps along the Afghan border, which Afghanistan claims hit civilian areas.
Civilian Impact
- Afghan authorities report injuries to 13 civilians, including women and children, from airstrikes on a temporary camp in Torkham.
Statements from Afghan Officials
- Zabihullah Mujahid emphasized that a military response to Pakistani airstrikes was inevitable and confidential.
- Afghanistan denies hosting TTP and accuses Pakistan of providing safe havens to ISIS fighters.
- Mujahid claims a school was hit during strikes in Paktika province, injuring a child.
Pakistan's Defence
- Pakistan maintains the airstrikes were “precision strikes” on militant camps responsible for attacks in Pakistan.
- Pakistan continues to deny Afghan claims and stresses measures to protect its territorial integrity against cross-border aggression.
Historical Context
- The Durand Line, a 2,611-kilometre border, remains a contentious issue as Afghanistan has not formally recognized it as an international border.
- Periodic clashes have occurred along this border despite mediation efforts, including those backed by Qatar.
