Afghanistan has announced that it launched airstrikes on Pakistani territory, while Islamabad reported that it shot down the drones involved. The incident marks a significant escalation in cross-border tensions between the two neighbors.
Afghan Airstrikes and Pakistan's Response
According to a statement from the Afghan Ministry of Defense, the airstrikes targeted militant positions inside Pakistan. The statement did not provide details on the number of drones used or the specific locations struck. In response, Pakistan's military said it had intercepted and shot down multiple drones that violated its airspace. A Pakistani security official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the drones were of Afghan origin.
Accusations of Harboring Militants
Pakistan has long accused Afghanistan of providing safe havens to militant groups, particularly the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which Islamabad blames for plotting attacks on its soil. The Afghan Taliban government, which has been in power since 2021, denies these allegations. A Taliban spokesperson stated, "Militancy is Pakistan's internal problem, and we do not allow any group to use Afghan territory against any country." The spokesperson also called for dialogue to resolve the issue.
Impact and Regional Concerns
The airstrikes have raised fears of a broader conflict between the two nuclear-armed nations. Analysts warn that such actions could destabilize the region further. The United Nations and several countries, including the United States and China, have urged restraint. A UN spokesperson said, "We call on both sides to de-escalate and engage in peaceful dialogue to prevent further violence." Local sources in Pakistan's border regions reported heightened security and panic among residents.
