Pakistan carried out airstrikes and deployed ground forces into eastern Afghanistan on Sunday, escalating tensions between the two neighbouring countries.
Pakistan’s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said the military operation targeted militant hideouts in the Afghan provinces of Paktia, Paktika and Kunar, killing 29 militants. He said the action was a response to recent terrorist attacks inside Pakistan.
Afghanistan’s Taliban government condemned the strikes as a “cowardly act” and described them as a crime against civilians. Taliban officials told BBC Pashto that more than 100 people were killed or wounded, including civilians. The BBC has not independently verified the casualty figures provided by either side.
Taliban authorities said the heaviest casualties were recorded in Mandikhel village in Paktika province, where civilian homes were reportedly hit. Pakistan insists its military targeted only militant positions.
The operation came one day after a suicide attack on the Sindh Rangers headquarters in Karachi killed three Pakistani security personnel. Pakistani officials said an Afghan national was among those arrested in connection with the attack, while banned militant group Jamaat-ul-Ahrar claimed responsibility.
The latest violence further weakens a ceasefire agreed in October 2025, as both countries continue to trade accusations.
READ ALSO: https://alo360.net/australian-man-charged-murder-teen-body-suitcase-thailand/
