Deadly Airstrikes Escalate Pakistan-Afghanistan Tensions
Pakistan has conducted military strikes on Afghanistan's Khost province, resulting in significant civilian casualties according to Taliban authorities. The incident represents a serious escalation in cross-border tensions between the two neighbouring nations.
Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed that ten people lost their lives, including nine children - five boys and four girls - and one woman. The attack targeted a civilian residence in the border region, with additional strikes in Kunar and Paktika provinces wounding four more civilians.
Retaliation for Peshawar Suicide Attack
These developments follow closely on the heels of a suicide attack on the headquarters of Pakistan's paramilitary Federal Constabulary force in Peshawar. That assault claimed the lives of three officers and left eleven others wounded.
While no group has officially claimed responsibility for the Peshawar attack, Pakistan's state broadcaster PTV reported the perpetrators were Afghan nationals. President Asif Zardari pointed fingers at what he termed "foreign-backed Fitna al-Khawarij" - Islamabad's designation for Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants allegedly operating from Afghan territory.
Deteriorating Relations Since Taliban Takeover
The relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan has grown increasingly strained since the Taliban returned to power in 2021. October witnessed deadly border clashes that killed approximately seventy people from both sides.
Although a ceasefire mediated by Qatar and Turkey temporarily halted the fighting, subsequent talks in Istanbul failed to produce a lasting agreement. Security concerns, particularly Pakistan's demand that Kabul restrain TTP fighters, have proven a major sticking point in negotiations.
Islamabad consistently alleges that the Taliban government provides sanctuary to militants responsible for a surge in attacks, including the TTP, which has waged a prolonged and violent campaign against Pakistan. Kabul vehemently denies these accusations, countering that Pakistan hosts groups hostile to Afghan interests and disrespects its sovereignty.
The situation remains volatile, with neither side showing immediate signs of de-escalation as civilian casualties continue to mount in this protracted border conflict.
