Pakistan launched airstrikes on militant camps across the border in Afghanistan on Sunday, targeting groups it blames for recent deadly attacks on its soil. The operations, described by Pakistan’s information ministry as “intelligence-based and selective,” focused on seven camps belonging to the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan and its affiliates, as well as a faction linked to the Islamic State.
Afghanistan’s Ministry of Defense condemned the strikes as a “blatant violation of Afghanistan’s national sovereignty” and a breach of international law. The strikes hit civilian areas in the eastern provinces of Nangarhar and Paktika, including a religious seminary and multiple homes. Afghan officials reported at least 18 civilians killed, including women and children, with rescue efforts ongoing.
The escalation follows a month of attacks in Pakistan, including the killing of two soldiers in the northwest and a suicide bombing at a Shia mosque in Islamabad. Pakistani authorities claimed to have “conclusive evidence” that these attacks were orchestrated by Afghan-based militants.
The latest strikes risk undermining the fragile ceasefire between the neighboring countries, established last October after years of deadly border skirmishes. Pakistan has long accused Kabul of harboring the TTP, claims which Afghanistan denies. Defense Minister Khawaja Asif previously emphasized Pakistan’s intent to neutralize TTP leadership using “whatever means are available.”
The situation underscores rising tensions in the region, with both nations navigating complex security, political, and humanitarian challenges.
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