Tensions Rise Between Pakistan and Afghanistan Over Border Strikes
Recent days have seen a spike in tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Pakistan confirmed that its security forces carried out targeted operations in the border regions of Nangarhar and Khost. This comes after Afghanistan’s Foreign Ministry summoned Pakistan’s ambassador in Kabul to protest Pakistani military strikes in these areas.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office spokesperson, Shafqat Ali Khan, urged Afghan authorities to prevent their territory from being used as a base for terrorist activities against Pakistan. During a weekly media briefing, he emphasized the importance of ensuring peace and security along the border.
Meanwhile, Afghanistan’s Taliban Defence Minister, Mullah Yaqoob, denied that there are any terrorist hideouts inside Afghanistan. He blamed Pakistan for security issues, a claim the Pakistani Foreign Office called ironic. The spokesperson highlighted ongoing concerns about terrorist groups like Fitna Al Khawarij operating in Afghanistan and causing security problems for Pakistan.
The friction between the two countries is not new. High-level discussions have taken place to address these issues, but they remain a significant challenge for both nations.
There was also recent violence near the border. Last week, at least 13 people, including women and children, were injured or killed in drone strikes in Nangarhar and Khost provinces. Afghan authorities accused Pakistan of launching these attacks, saying they violated Afghan airspace and targeted civilian homes, creating fear and chaos in local communities.
The Afghan Foreign Ministry described these strikes as a breach of Afghanistan’s sovereignty and warned of potential consequences. They stressed that protecting Afghanistan’s independence is a red line for the government.
These developments come at a time of strained relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Pakistan has accused the Taliban of providing safe haven to the outlawed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which Islamabad says has launched attacks inside Pakistan since the Taliban took control of Kabul.
As tensions continue to grow, both countries remain cautious and watchful, with security and sovereignty at the forefront of their concerns.
