Cross-Border Strikes Spark Fresh Crisis
Tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan have surged once again. Early Friday, Afghan officials said Pakistan launched airstrikes in Kabul, Kandahar, and Paktia Province. The strikes came just hours after Afghanistan claimed it attacked Pakistani military positions. According to spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid, Afghan forces carried out “large-scale operations” along the Durand Line. Meanwhile, residents in Kabul reported at least three explosions. However, officials have not confirmed casualties so far.
Pakistan Responds With Counterclaims
Soon after, Pakistani security officials spoke to the Associated Press. They said their forces targeted Afghan military facilities in response to earlier attacks. Furthermore, they claimed the strikes destroyed brigade bases. However, they did not release verified casualty figures. In contrast, Afghan authorities accused Pakistan of escalating the conflict. As a result, tensions along the border intensified rapidly.
Conflicting Casualty Figures Raise Questions
Afghanistan’s defense ministry said its forces killed 55 Pakistani soldiers. Moreover, officials claimed they captured several troops and destroyed multiple posts. Kabul also admitted eight Afghan soldiers died and 11 were injured. Meanwhile, Pakistan rejected these numbers. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said only two Pakistani soldiers were killed. Additionally, a spokesperson for Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif denied reports of captured troops. Therefore, independent verification remains crucial.
Long-Standing Border Dispute Drives Escalation
The Durand Line has fueled disputes for decades. Although a Qatar-mediated ceasefire reduced violence last year, clashes never fully stopped. Furthermore, both sides continue to accuse each other of supporting militants. Despite diplomatic efforts, trust remains low. Consequently, this latest exchange has raised fears of wider instability in South Asia. Regional observers now watch closely for renewed talks to prevent further escalation.
