Speculation Surrounds Pakistan's Air Operations Amid Taliban Leadership Rumors
Unverified Claims of Targeting Taliban Leader
Unverified reports are spreading on social media suggesting that Pakistan may have aimed to strike Hibatullah Akhundzada, the elusive leader of the Taliban, during its recent air operations in Afghanistan. This speculation arises amid escalating cross-border tensions following Islamabad's launch of Operation Ghazab Lil Haq. Initial discussions mistakenly pointed to Kabul as the target, but focus quickly shifted to Kandahar, a significant development.
Increased Jet Activity in Kandahar Raises Eyebrows
Jet Activity Over Kandahar Fuels Speculation
Kandahar, recognized as Akhundzada's operational hub since the Taliban regained control, experienced notable aerial activity coinciding with reports of explosions in various regions. Journalists from a major news agency in Kabul reported hearing jets followed by multiple blasts and sporadic gunfire for over two hours. An additional correspondent in Kandahar confirmed the presence of aircraft during this period. This coincidence sparked a wave of online theories regarding a potential strike on Taliban leadership. However, mere coincidence does not imply intent, and no official statements from either Kabul or Islamabad have confirmed that Akhundzada was the target.
Official Responses and Confirmations
What Has Actually Been Confirmed
The Taliban government acknowledged the occurrence of Pakistani airstrikes but did not suggest that any senior leaders were the intended targets. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid stated that there were no casualties resulting from these air operations, nor was there any mention of damage to leadership facilities. Earlier, Mujahid had declared 'large-scale offensive operations' along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, framing them as a response to repeated violations by Pakistani forces. The Afghan defense ministry later confirmed the deaths of eight Afghan soldiers in subsequent ground confrontations.
Pakistan's Stance on the Operations
On the Pakistani side, there has been no confirmation of any attempt to eliminate the Taliban's supreme leader. Islamabad has asserted that its strikes were aimed at infrastructure associated with Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), particularly camps near the disputed Durand Line. This distinction is crucial, as targeting TTP infrastructure aligns with Pakistan's stated counterterrorism strategy. A direct strike on Akhundzada would signify a much more serious escalation.
Rising Tensions Along the Durand Line
Escalation Along the Durand Line
The current rise in tensions can be traced back to Pakistani airstrikes on February 22 against alleged TTP positions, which Islamabad described as essential counterterrorism actions. In contrast, Kabul accused Pakistan of violating Afghan sovereignty and inflicting civilian casualties. Clashes have intensified at critical crossing points, especially near the Torkham border and Spin Boldak. Local officials have reported injuries among civilians near a camp for returnees from Pakistan, although detailed casualty figures are still scarce. Akhundzada, who has led the Taliban since 2016, is believed to primarily operate from Kandahar rather than Kabul, which likely fueled speculation following the reported jet activity. However, at this point, there is no credible evidence to support claims that Pakistan attempted to target him directly. Both governments have acknowledged military engagements, but neither has confirmed the theory of targeting leadership.