Deadly Airstrike in Paktika Province Sparks Tensions
At least 15 people, including women and children, were killed in a deadly airstrike carried out by Pakistan in Afghanistan’s Paktika province. The attack targeted several locations in the Bermal district on the night of December 24, leaving entire villages devastated. The death toll is expected to rise as rescue efforts continue, with many individuals reportedly injured.
The Taliban-led Afghan government condemned the strikes, labeling them as barbaric and vowing to retaliate against Pakistan. The Afghan Ministry of Defense accused Pakistan of violating international laws and warned of consequences for escalating tensions between the two nations.
Pakistan Targets TTP Havens in Afghanistan
According to reports from DawnPakistani fighter jets bombed four locations in the eastern Paktika province, allegedly targeting Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants. While Pakistan has not officially confirmed the operation, security sources suggest the strikes were a response to growing concerns over cross-border terrorism.
The village of Laman was one of the worst-hit areas, with an entire family of five reportedly killed. In Bermal’s Murgh Bazaar, the destruction was so extensive that the village was nearly wiped out. Survivors recounted scenes of chaos and despair as they searched for loved ones amidst the rubble.
Afghanistan Blames Pakistan for Escalating Conflicts
The Afghan Taliban has strongly denied harboring TTP militants and dismissed Pakistan’s accusations. In a statement, the Ministry of Defense condemned the airstrikes and called on Pakistan to resolve disputes through dialogue, warning that such attacks would not lead to a solution but instead worsen the crisis.
“This attack ignored all international norms and humanitarian principles,” the ministry stated, accusing Pakistan of reckless aggression. Afghan officials further urged international bodies to intervene and hold Pakistan accountable for its actions.
Growing Tensions Threaten Regional Stability
The airstrikes come at a time when relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan are increasingly strained. Pakistan claims that Afghanistan provides safe haven to TTP militants responsible for attacks on its soil. In contrast, Afghanistan denies these allegations, accusing Pakistan of unjustified aggression under the guise of counterterrorism.
Experts warn that the latest airstrikes could escalate the ongoing tensions between the two neighbors, both of which are grappling with domestic challenges and security concerns. The border skirmishes, coupled with mutual distrust, are seen as significant threats to regional stability.
Calls for International Intervention
The international community has been urged to mediate and prevent further deterioration of Afghan-Pakistani relations. Advocacy groups have called for immediate investigations into the airstrike to ensure accountability for the civilian casualties.
Amid the growing tensions, analysts emphasize the need for both nations to prioritize dialogue over conflict. While Pakistan insists on curbing cross-border militancy, Afghanistan demands respect for its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Afghanistan Vows Retaliation After Pakistan’s Airstrike Kills 15 Civilians
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