Afghanistan strongly condemned cross-border airstrikes conducted by Pakistan, alleging that dozens of civilians, including women and children, were killed in Nangarhar and Paktika provinces. Afghanistan’s Defence Ministry called the strikes a violation of international law, national sovereignty, and neighbourly relations, and warned of a calculated response.

Pakistan, however, defended the operation, saying it carried out intelligence-based strikes on terrorist camps linked to the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan and Islamic State – Khorasan Province. Islamabad claimed the action followed a series of suicide bombings and attacks inside Pakistan, which it blamed on militants allegedly operating from Afghan territory.

The incident marks a major escalation in already strained relations between the two countries, despite recent diplomatic efforts to ease tensions. Afghanistan has denied harbouring terrorists and insisted that civilian areas and religious centres were targeted. The situation raises fresh concerns over regional security, border stability, and the risk of further military confrontation.