In a dramatic escalation of hostilities between Pakistan and Afghanistan, both sides have exchanged cross-border attacks and airstrikes, marking one of the worst flare-ups in the region since clashes began in 2024. Pakistan’s military launched a series of airstrikes on multiple locations inside Afghanistan, including in Kabul, Kandahar and Paktia provinces, in response to what Islamabad described as “unprovoked firing” and militant activity originating from Afghan soil. Pakistani officials reported striking Taliban positions and ammunition depots across several sectors.
Afghan authorities sharply condemned the strikes, accusing Pakistan of violating Afghan sovereignty and causing civilian harm in some areas on the outskirts of major cities. Kabul has reported retaliatory assaults on Pakistani border posts, with both sides issuing conflicting casualty figures that remain unverified. In statements, Pakistan’s defense minister asserted that Islamabad’s “patience has run out,” effectively describing the situation as an “open war” after sustained exchanges of fire along the disputed Durand Line.
International concern is rising as regional powers call for restraint and efforts at diplomacy. The humanitarian impact is also drawing attention, with fears of further displacement and civilian suffering if the conflict continues to intensify, news as reported .
