Tensions Escalate Between Pakistan and Afghanistan Amid Cross-Border Attacks

Rising Tensions at the Pakistan-Afghanistan Border

Kabul: The situation along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border has once again become highly volatile. On February 22, Pakistan launched an attack on alleged TTP bases within Afghanistan. In response, Afghanistan issued a warning of retaliation. Late Thursday night, the Afghan Taliban initiated countermeasures, resulting in gunfire and mortar attacks along the border. In retaliation, Pakistan conducted airstrikes. According to reports from Afghan media, sources indicated that Pakistani fighter jets carried out air raids in Nangarhar province.

Claims of Downed Pakistani Fighter Jet

Security sources informed local media that a Pakistani aircraft had intruded into Afghan airspace, which Afghan forces targeted and reportedly shot down. However, this claim has not been independently verified. The Afghan side asserts that Pakistan also bombarded areas such as Kabul, Kandahar, and Paktia. Zabihullah Mujahid, a spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, confirmed on social media that the Pakistani military had conducted attacks in several locations, although he noted that there were no significant damages.

Pakistan's Perspective

On the other hand, Pakistan claims it faced 'unprovoked gunfire' from the Afghan Taliban and acted in self-defense. The Pakistani Ministry of Information and the Prime Minister's spokesperson stated that their counteraction resulted in the deaths of 133 Afghan Taliban fighters and over 200 injuries, along with the destruction of several military bases and ammunition depots. However, from Afghanistan's viewpoint, the situation appears different. Kabul argues that Pakistan repeatedly violates Afghan sovereignty with cross-border attacks, which Afghan officials say not only contravenes international law but also poses a threat to regional peace.