Pakistan’s armed forces carried out fresh aerial strikes inside Afghanistan on Saturday, targeting multiple military camps and posts associated with the Afghan Taliban regime, according to security sources.
The operation, described as part of “Operation Ghazab Lil Haq,” follows heightened cross-border hostilities between the two neighbouring countries.
Widespread Aerial Targeting
Officials said Pakistan Air Force jets targeted dozens of locations across Afghanistan in response to what Islamabad termed a cross-border offensive by Afghan forces earlier in the week.
Security sources claimed that nearly three dozen sites were subjected to aerial strikes, including military camps, posts and logistical facilities.
They further alleged heavy losses among Afghan fighters, along with destruction of armoured vehicles and installations.
The reported strikes included locations in southern Afghanistan, including Kandahar, as well as areas near the capital.
Rising Casualties and Regional Reaction
Pakistan earlier stated that 12 of its soldiers were martyred in prior clashes. Afghan officials have not independently confirmed the casualty figures cited by Pakistani sources.
The escalation prompted international calls for restraint. The United Kingdom, the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross urged both sides to de-escalate, while diplomatic efforts were reportedly underway in China, Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
A US official expressed support for Pakistan’s right to defend itself against cross-border attacks, following discussions with Pakistani counterparts.
Diplomatic Efforts and Accusations
Relations between Islamabad and Kabul have deteriorated in recent months, with border crossings frequently closed following deadly clashes.
Pakistan has accused the Afghan Taliban government of failing to curb militant groups operating from its territory, particularly the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which has claimed responsibility for multiple attacks inside Pakistan.
The Afghan Taliban government denies providing safe havens to militant groups and has called for dialogue to resolve the conflict.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif described the situation as an “open war” in a social media post, while Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid reiterated Kabul’s preference for negotiations.
Analysts have described the latest strikes as a significant escalation, raising concerns about broader regional instability if tensions continue to rise.
