Tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan have sharply escalated as repeated Pakistani airstrikes on Afghan territory triggered retaliatory attacks and intensified clashes along the Durand Line, the long-disputed border between the two neighbours.
On 22 and 26 February 2026, the Pakistan Air Force conducted multiple air raids in eastern Afghan provinces such as Nangarhar and Paktika, targeting camps linked to the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Islamic State – Khorasan Province (ISKP), which Pakistan blames for cross-border militant attacks. Afghan officials condemned these strikes as violations of their sovereignty and reported civilian casualties, including women and children, in some areas.
In response to the Pakistani raids, Afghan forces and Taliban-aligned units reportedly launched counterattacks against Pakistani border posts, with Afghan spokesmen claiming assaults on multiple military positions and Pakistani authorities asserting that Afghan fighters opened “unprovoked fire.”
The current violence marks a significant escalation of long-standing border tensions, complicating fragile diplomatic efforts and raising fears of a broader conflict. The clashes have disrupted trade and movement along key crossings, and both sides have reaffirmed their readiness to defend territorial claims as regional actors call for restraint to prevent further instability. news as reported
