Pakistan has carried out its largest attack in Afghanistan since recent border clashes, launching overnight airstrikes that killed numerous civilians—including children—in the provinces of Nangarhar and Paktika. The strikes left several homes and a madrasa in ruins, with many victims trapped beneath the debris.
According to local officials, the attacks began around midnight on Saturday, hitting three districts simultaneously. Rescue workers, aided by residents, spent hours pulling bodies and survivors from collapsed structures. Dozens were reportedly killed.
Islamabad confirmed that its military targeted seven locations near the border, describing the operation as retaliation for a recent suicide bombing inside Pakistan. Officials said the strikes aimed at members of the Islamic State’s regional affiliate and allied militant groups believed to be operating from Afghan soil.
The Afghan Ministry of Defense reported significant civilian casualties and infrastructure damage, vowing a “measured and well-planned response” to what it described as a violation of Afghan sovereignty. Nangarhar police officials stated that one extended family lost 23 members, with only five being rescued alive.
Tensions between the neighboring countries have been rising since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021. The last major border confrontation occurred in October, when nearly a week of heavy shelling and skirmishes left scores dead.
UN mission data shows that Pakistani military operations between October and December alone resulted in at least 70 Afghan civilian deaths. Although Qatar and Turkey have mediated several rounds of talks following an initial ceasefire, no lasting agreement has been reached.
Pakistan accuses the Taliban government of failing to curb militant groups launching attacks across the border. Afghan authorities deny providing sanctuary to such groups and claim Pakistan’s allegations are politically motivated.
Source: Gulf News.