Pakistan’s military, under the command of Army Chief General Asim Munir, has launched airstrikes in close proximity to Kabul, Afghanistan, intensifying regional anxieties. Islamabad’s justification for the operation was the purported targeting of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) commander Noor Wali Mehsud, accused of orchestrating a recent deadly ambush on Pakistani forces in Orakzai. However, the TTP swiftly released an audio message, reportedly featuring Mehsud, denying his death and asserting he is very much alive, thereby casting significant doubt on the operation’s stated objective and success.
This controversial military action has placed Pakistan’s counter-terrorism strategy under a harsh spotlight, with many observers deeming it a major strategic error. The Afghan Taliban government issued a strong condemnation, denouncing the strikes as a violation of Afghanistan’s sovereign territory and warning of potential retaliation. Kabul’s official statement made it clear that Pakistan would be held accountable for any civilian lives lost in the unprovoked attack.
The geopolitical landscape is further complicated by the ongoing visit of Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to India, where he is meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. India reaffirmed its unwavering support for Afghanistan’s sovereignty and security and disclosed plans to reopen its embassy in Kabul, signaling a deepening diplomatic engagement.
Adding to the internal challenges, Pakistan’s government has resorted to suspending internet services in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. This action coincides with large-scale demonstrations by the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), a radical group that attempted to march on the US Embassy in protest of the Gaza situation. Reports indicate that violent confrontations have already erupted between protestors and security personnel.