Pakistan Strikes in Afghanistan, Dozens Reported Killed or Wounded

Pakistan’s military has launched air strikes in Afghanistan, targeting camps linked to armed groups responsible for a series of attacks, including a recent suicide bombing at a Shia mosque in Islamabad. These strikes have raised concerns about the stability of an already fragile ceasefire between the two neighboring nations.

Details of the Air Strikes

The Pakistani military conducted these operations under the banner of “intelligence-based, selective operations.” They identified seven camps and hideouts belonging to the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and its affiliates. Additionally, an affiliate aligned with the Islamic State was also targeted during the air strikes.

Casualties and Response from Afghanistan

According to Afghan sources, the air strikes in the Nangarhar province resulted in at least 17 fatalities. The Afghan Ministry of Defence condemned the military action, stating it affected a religious school and residential areas, leading to numerous casualties, including women and children. They labeled the strikes a breach of international law and affirmed their commitment to responding appropriately.

• At least 17 killed in Nangarhar due to air strikes.
• Targeted camps linked to TTP and other armed groups.
• Condemnation from Afghan officials for hitting civilian sites.

Context of Recent Attacks

These military operations came shortly after a suicide bomber targeted a security convoy in the Bannu district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, resulting in the deaths of two soldiers. Another similar attack in Bajaur took the lives of 11 soldiers and a child. These incidents are part of a rising pattern of violence attributed to both the TTP and other insurgent groups.

Previously, on February 6, a suicide bomber exploded during prayers at the Khadija Tul Kubra mosque in Islamabad, killing 31 worshippers and injuring over 170. The Islamic State claimed responsibility for this tragic event, marking a resurgence of violence in a heavily secured capital.

International Implications

The Pakistani Ministry of Information emphasized the need for the international community to urge the Taliban to adhere to commitments made in an agreement with the United States in 2020. They highlighted the significance of preventing Afghan territory from being used for attacks on other nations, which is essential for regional and global peace.

Despite past assurances, the Taliban government has constantly denied harboring anti-Pakistan armed groups. The relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan remains tense due to recent escalations in violence and failure to establish a formal ceasefire after a Qatar-mediated agreement in October 2023.

Current Security Situation

Violence in Pakistan has surged in recent years, primarily linked to the TTP and outlawed Baloch separatist factions. Pakistan accuses the TTP of launching attacks from Afghan soil, a claim that the group consistently denies.

As the situation develops, both countries face increased pressure to stabilize their relations and ensure the safety of their citizens.