Taliban Condemns 'Brutal Aggression' of Pakistan Airstrikes

Fresh cross-border tensions erupted after Pakistan allegedly carried out overnight airstrikes on civilian areas in eastern Afghanistan, with Taliban authorities claiming that dozens of civilians, including women and children, were killed or injured.

According to Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid, the strikes targeted Gayan district in Paktika Province, Tsamkani district in Paktia Province, and Manogai district in Kunar Province late Sunday night. Calling the attacks a "cowardly act of aggression," the Taliban described them as a violation of Afghan sovereignty and a crime against civilians.

Taliban condemns attack

In a statement posted on X, Mujahid said the airstrikes struck residential areas and resulted in heavy civilian casualties. While an exact death toll has not yet been officially confirmed, Taliban authorities said women and children were among those killed and injured.

Former US envoy questions Pakistan's intentions

Former US Ambassador to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad also condemned the strikes, accusing Pakistan of choosing military action instead of dialogue despite repeated calls for negotiations.

Khalilzad questioned whether Islamabad was genuinely seeking a peaceful settlement with Afghanistan or pursuing broader strategic objectives, including creating instability and expanding Chinese influence in the region. He warned that prolonged instability could strengthen terrorist groups such as ISIS-K while undermining regional security.

Tensions continue to rise

The latest strikes come weeks after Afghanistan summoned Pakistan's chargé d'affaires over earlier cross-border airstrikes that reportedly killed 13 civilians, including 11 children, in Kunar, Khost and Paktika provinces.

Relations between the two neighbouring countries have remained tense in recent months, with repeated border clashes, airspace violations and accusations exchanged by both sides.