Islamabad Says Dozens of Militants Killed
Pakistan’s military carried out airstrikes along the border with Afghanistan early Sunday, targeting what officials described as hideouts of Pakistani militant groups. Deputy Interior Minister Talal Chaudhry told local media that at least 70 militants were killed, while state-run outlets later reported the toll could be as high as 80. No independent evidence was immediately provided.
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said the operation targeted seven camps linked to the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and its affiliates, as well as an affiliate of the Islamic State group. He characterized the action as intelligence-based and selective, emphasizing that Pakistan’s top priority remains the security of its citizens.
Kabul Condemns Civilian Casualties
Afghanistan’s defense ministry said multiple civilian areas in Nangarhar and Paktika provinces were hit, including a religious madrassa and residential homes. The ministry described the strikes as a violation of Afghan airspace and sovereignty.
Government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said dozens were killed or wounded, including women and children. Mawlawi Fazl Rahman Fayyaz of the Afghan Red Crescent Society in Nangarhar reported 18 confirmed deaths and additional injuries.
Local residents were seen clearing rubble and preparing funerals. Tribal elder Habib Ullah said those killed were ordinary villagers and not affiliated with militant groups.
Diplomatic Fallout and Protest
Afghanistan’s foreign ministry summoned Pakistan’s ambassador to Kabul, delivering a formal protest note. The ministry warned that protecting Afghan territory is a sovereign responsibility and said Pakistan would bear responsibility for consequences arising from the strikes.
Islamabad maintains that militant violence inside Pakistan has surged in recent years, blaming attacks on the TTP and allied groups. Pakistani officials allege these militants operate from Afghan territory, a claim denied by both the TTP and Afghanistan’s Taliban authorities.
Escalation After Suicide Attacks
The cross-border strikes followed a suicide bombing in Pakistan’s Bannu district that killed two soldiers, including a lieutenant colonel. Days earlier, an explosives-laden vehicle targeted a security post in Bajaur district, killing 11 soldiers and a child. Pakistani authorities said the Bajaur attacker was an Afghan national.
Tarar stated that Pakistan possesses what he described as conclusive evidence linking recent attacks, including a deadly bombing at a Shiite mosque in Islamabad, to Afghanistan-based militant leadership. He urged international pressure on Kabul to prevent militant groups from using Afghan territory to launch attacks, referencing commitments made under the Doha agreement.
Fragile Truce at Risk
The latest escalation threatens a fragile ceasefire brokered after deadly border clashes in October. Mediation efforts led by Qatar, Turkey and Saudi Arabia have so far failed to produce a lasting agreement.
Security analysts warn that renewed strikes could deepen instability between Islamabad and Kabul, adding further strain to already tense bilateral relations along one of South Asia’s most volatile borders.