India Condemns Pakistan's Air Strikes on Afghan Soil
India on Monday issued a strong condemnation of Pakistani air strikes targeting Afghan territory, which resulted in multiple civilian casualties including women and children. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) described the action as a blatant assault on Afghanistan's sovereignty and a direct threat to regional peace and stability.
In an official statement, the MEA said: "India strongly condemns Pakistan's air-strikes on Afghan territory that have resulted in several civilian casualties, including women and children. This blatant act of aggression by Pakistan is an assault on Afghanistan's sovereignty and a direct threat to regional peace and stability."
Accusations of 'Reckless Behaviour' and Internal Failures
The MEA further accused Pakistan of a persistent pattern of reckless conduct, alleging that the strikes were an attempt to divert attention from domestic challenges. "It reflects Pakistan's persistent pattern of reckless behaviour and its futile attempt to externalize internal failures through desperate acts of violence beyond its borders," the statement added.
India also expressed condolences to the families of the victims and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured. "India conveys its condolences to Afghan families that have lost loved ones, prays for early recovery of those injured and reiterates its unwavering support for Afghanistan's sovereignty and territorial integrity," the MEA said.
Details of the Attacks and Civilian Toll
The strikes were conducted by Pakistan in the eastern Afghan provinces of Paktia, Paktika, and Kunar. According to the deputy spokesperson of the Taliban-led Afghan government, Hamdullah Fitrat, the attacks resulted in the martyrdom of 36 civilians, including women and children, while 163 others sustained injuries. Three residential houses were completely destroyed.
Fitrat provided a breakdown of the targeted locations: In Mandokhail Village, Chamkani District, Paktia Province, Pakistani fighter jets bombed a civilian residence, killing one elderly man and one child, and injuring other family members. A subsequent strike targeted rescuers at the same location. Another fatal strike hit Walust Village in Giyan District, Paktika Province, destroying a villager's home. A third strike was reported in Barolo Village, Manogai District, Kunar Province.
Pakistan Confirms Cross-Border Operations
Pakistan confirmed the strikes, with Information Minister Attaullah Tarar stating on Sunday night that Islamabad's security forces had executed a "well-planned intelligence-based ground operation" alongside aerial strikes in the frontier zone.
