In a rare move, Pakistan conducted airstrikes on suspected Taliban hideouts in Afghanistan, resulting in civilian casualties and escalating regional tensions. The Taliban has vowed retaliation, claiming the attacks violated their sovereignty. As recovery efforts begin, the conflict highlights the fragile nature of Pakistan-Afghanistan relations.
The operation occurred on Tuesday, with Pakistani security officials, speaking anonymously due to regulations, describing it as an effort to dismantle a training facility and neutralize insurgents in Paktika.
Afghanistan-based Khaama Press claimed that a series of Pakistani airstrikes on the Barmal district of Paktika province has resulted in the death of at least 15 people, including women and children, with the toll expected to rise.
The attacks, which took place on the night of December 24, targeted seven villages, including Laman, where five members of a family were killed, Khaama Press reported.
Some media reports indicate that the Murg Bazaar village in Barmal was destroyed, exacerbating the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
The airstrikes have caused severe civilian casualties and widespread destruction, further escalating tensions in the region. As recovery efforts continue, further investigation is required to confirm details and clarify responsibility for the attacks, Khaama Press reported.
In contrast, Mohammad Khurasani, spokesman for the Pakistani Taliban (Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan or TTP), claimed the airstrikes caused 50 deaths, including 27 women and children. Local residents reported at least 13 fatalities, though they cautioned the toll could rise, the AP reported. The injured were transported to nearby hospitals.
The Taliban’s ministry of defence has vowed to retaliate following the airstrike on Barmal, Paktika. It stated that defending their land and sovereignty is their legitimate right, and condemned the attack, claiming that “Waziristani refugees” were among those targeted.
While Pakistani officials have not officially confirmed the airstrikes, the reports come amid escalating tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, particularly regarding the presence of Pakistani militants in Afghanistan.
