Pakistan Declares Open War After Kabul Airstrikes

Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have escalated sharply after Islamabad declared “open war” on the Afghan Taliban government following renewed cross-border clashes. The escalation came after Pakistani airstrikes targeted Kabul, Kandahar and Paktia, hours after Afghan forces launched attacks on Pakistani border positions. Both sides have reported heavy casualties, though figures differ widely, raising concerns over regional stability and civilian safety along the volatile frontier.

Airstrikes on Kabul and Kandahar

Explosions were reported in Kabul, with Afghan authorities confirming strikes in the capital as well as in Kandahar and Paktia provinces. Pakistan stated that the air raids targeted Afghan military facilities, including brigade and corps headquarters and logistics bases. Islamabad described the strikes as part of “Operation Ghazab lil-Haq”, launched in response to what it termed unprovoked firing from across the border. Afghan officials, however, condemned the attacks as violations of sovereignty and international law.

Cross-Border Offensive and Casualty Claims

Afghanistan claimed its forces launched a retaliatory ground offensive, capturing several Pakistani posts and killing 55 Pakistani soldiers. Kabul reported eight Afghan soldiers killed and 11 wounded. Pakistan rejected these figures, stating only two of its soldiers were killed and three injured. Islamabad claimed that at least 133 Afghan fighters were killed and over 200 wounded in its response, along with the destruction of multiple Afghan military installations. Both sides also exchanged fire near the strategic Torkham border crossing.

Civilian Impact and Border Disruptions

Civilians have been caught in the crossfire. Afghan officials reported injuries at a refugee camp near Torkham after a mortar shell struck the area, wounding several returnees, including women. Authorities began evacuations amid fears of further shelling. On the Pakistani side, residents in border villages were also moved to safer areas. The border, largely closed since earlier clashes, remains tense, disrupting trade and movement.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Durand Line forms the disputed Afghanistan–Pakistan border.
• Torkham is a key trade and transit point between the two countries.
• The Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is distinct from Afghanistan’s Taliban but ideologically aligned.
• Qatar has previously mediated ceasefire efforts between Kabul and Islamabad.

Rising Regional and Diplomatic Concerns

The latest escalation follows months of intermittent clashes and failed ceasefire efforts. Pakistan has repeatedly accused Afghanistan of harbouring militant groups responsible for attacks inside its territory, a charge Kabul denies. The United Nations has urged both sides to exercise restraint and protect civilians under international law. With ceasefire arrangements appearing fragile, the conflict risks destabilising the broader region if diplomatic channels fail to contain the hostilities.