Pakistan conducted air strikes on Taliban forces in Afghanistan’s Kabul and Kandahar overnight, marking a significant shift in relations between the two nations. Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif declared an ‘open war’ in response to what Islamabad describes as ‘unprovoked Afghan attacks.’
Security sources stated that the strikes targeted Taliban military offices in Kabul, Kandahar, and Paktia province. Ground skirmishes occurred along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. The Taliban responded by attacking Pakistani military facilities.
Both sides claim heavy casualties, with conflicting figures that remain unverifiable. Pakistan’s military heightened security, citing Taliban and Islamic State threats from Afghanistan.
Diplomatic efforts from Russia, China, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Iran aim to mediate the conflict. The United Nations and Kabul reported civilian casualties due to prior Pakistani strikes.
Videos verified by Reuters showed explosions and artillery in Kabul, while Pakistani officials highlighted potential escalation in urban attacks.
