Cross-border fury erupts anew: Pakistan’s air force pummeled suspected militant sites in Afghanistan, prompting Kabul’s fierce backlash over civilian losses. Strikes in eastern provinces left scores killed or maimed, officials claim, fueling a dangerous standoff.
Taliban mouthpiece Zabihullah Mujahid decried the ‘indiscriminate bombing’ of villages in Nangarhar and Paktika. ‘Dozens of innocents, including kids and mothers, perished,’ he vented online, vowing repercussions.
Islamabad stands firm, framing the action as self-defense. Information chief Attaullah Tarar revealed intelligence-guided destruction of seven Pakistani Taliban bases plus an ISIS partner behind the horrific Islamabad mosque attack—31 dead, 160+ hurt in the worst strike since the 2008 Marriott carnage.
In a pointed army communique, Pakistan lamented the Afghan regime’s inaction despite entreaties. ‘Repeatedly urged to verify and halt terrorist ops from your soil—no results,’ it stated. Peace efforts continue, but national security comes first.
Post-2021 Taliban takeover, bilateral strains have mounted via clashes and terror haven allegations. Pakistan points fingers at Afghan sanctuaries for its woes; Kabul flatly denies.
The volatile Durand Line teeters on escalation. World leaders watch warily, pushing mediation to avert chaos.