Eight civilians, including women and children, were reportedly killed in airstrikes carried out by the Pakistani military on Monday in the border areas of Afghanistan. This incident has further strained relations between the two neighboring countries.
Taliban Condemns Strikes as Reckless Act
The Taliban government’s spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, strongly condemned the airstrikes, calling them “reckless” and a violation of Afghan sovereignty. He stated that the strikes targeted civilian homes in Khost and Paktika provinces, located near the border with Pakistan. The airstrikes reportedly occurred around 3:00 AM local time.
Pakistan Vows Retaliation After Soldier Deaths
These airstrikes come after a deadly attack inside Pakistan on Saturday that claimed the lives of seven Pakistani soldiers, including a lieutenant colonel. Pakistan’s President, Asif Ali Zardari, vowed a strong response to the attack, stating that Pakistan will retaliate against anyone who violates their borders and carries out terror attacks.
Militant Activity Creates Border Tensions
The border region between Afghanistan and Pakistan has long been a haven for militant groups, including the Pakistani Taliban group, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The TTP has been carrying out attacks against Pakistani security forces, and analysts believe they have grown bolder since the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan.
Conflicting Reports on Casualties and Targets
The Taliban denies providing safe harbor to Pakistani militants. They also claim that Pakistani military helicopters conducted airstrikes in 2022 on the Afghan side of the border, resulting in civilian casualties.
The TTP issued a statement denying involvement in Monday’s attacks and stated that their operations occur within Pakistan. However, an anonymous TTP source reported that the strikes caused civilian casualties, including women and children.
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