Pakistan's Operation Against Afghan Taliban: Casualties and Diplomatic Efforts Unfold

In a significant military operation, Pakistan has reported the deaths of around 300 Afghan Taliban members amid escalating tensions. The operation, named Ghazab lil-Haq, was launched in response to simultaneous attacks along the border. As casualties mount, both sides are exploring diplomatic avenues for resolution, with regional players like Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar stepping in to mediate. The situation remains fluid, with calls for dialogue from the Afghan Taliban amidst ongoing military actions. Discover the latest developments in this complex geopolitical landscape.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 28, 2026, 17:34 IST

Intense Military Action in Pakistan

Islamabad: Recent reports indicate that approximately 300 members of the Afghan Taliban and associated militant groups have been killed during ongoing military operations in Pakistan, as announced on Sunday.

Information Minister Attaullah Tarar provided an update late at night, revealing that security forces had eliminated 297 Taliban fighters, with over 450 others sustaining injuries.

The minister detailed that during Operation Ghazab lil-Haq, Pakistan successfully dismantled 89 Taliban posts and seized 18 additional sites, while also destroying around 135 tanks and armored vehicles.

Furthermore, he noted that the air force effectively targeted 29 locations within Afghanistan.

This extensive military response, dubbed Operation Ghazab lil Haq, was initiated following simultaneous attacks on 53 sites along the extensive 2,600 km border by the Afghan side.

In a press briefing on Friday, army spokesperson Lt Gen Ahmad Sharif Chaudhry emphasized that the Afghan Taliban must make a decisive choice between aligning with Pakistan or various terrorist organizations.

He stated, "The oppressive Afghan Taliban regime must choose between Pakistan and groups like Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan, Baloch Liberation Army, Daesh, and Al Qaeda. Our stance is unequivocal: Pakistan comes first."

Pakistan has long accused the Afghan Taliban of permitting the TTP and other terrorist factions to operate from their territory, facilitating attacks against Pakistan.

In contrast, the Afghan government has dismissed these claims, urging Pakistan to address its internal issues through dialogue with militants.

Meanwhile, a senior US official has expressed support for Pakistan's right to defend itself against terrorist threats.

Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker conveyed condolences for the lives lost in the recent clashes and reaffirmed US support for Pakistan's defensive measures against Taliban aggression.

As tensions escalated, the Afghan Taliban expressed a willingness to engage in negotiations with Pakistan.

Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi communicated with Qatar's junior Foreign Minister, emphasizing Afghanistan's preference for resolving disputes through mutual understanding.

Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid reiterated this sentiment, stating their desire to address the situation through dialogue.

Diplomatic efforts are underway to de-escalate the conflict, with regional nations actively seeking to mend relations between the two countries.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has offered to mediate, expressing Iran's readiness to assist in fostering dialogue and cooperation.

Additionally, Saudi Arabia and Qatar are playing their roles in promoting peace, with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan engaging with both Pakistani and Afghan officials.

Turkey is also involved in discussions aimed at reducing hostilities.