Several civilians, including women and children, have reportedly been killed and injured in Pakistan-conducted airstrikes within Afghanistan. Islamabad claims the operations targeted “terrorist camps” located on Afghan soil. According to Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the strikes were a response to recent series of suicide bombings allegedly orchestrated by certain groups operating from Afghanistan.
The attacks represent the latest escalation in tensions between the two neighbouring countries, following a deadly border clash last October in which at least 70 people lost their lives. In the months since, sporadic skirmishes and cross-border incidents have continued, disrupting trade, travel, and the lives of ordinary residents along the 2,600-kilometre (1,600-mile) frontier.
Targets and Impact
Pakistan has stated that seven terrorist camps and hidden shelters across Afghanistan’s Nangarhar and Paktika provinces were deliberately targeted. Local reports indicate that dozens of people, including children, were killed or injured. Rescue efforts at the sites have involved bulldozers clearing rubble to retrieve victims.
A security official revealed that an airstrike in a house in Behsud district, Nangarhar, killed 17 individuals, of whom 12 were children and teenagers.
Pakistan’s Claims and Afghan Response
According to Islamabad, intelligence used to plan the attacks identified militants responsible for several recent strikes, including a suicide bombing at a Shia mosque in Islamabad and attacks on military personnel in Bannu. Pakistan attributes these actions to foreign elements, specifically naming the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
Afghan authorities, however, strongly reject the claims. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid tweeted that “Pakistani generals are attempting to cover up their own security weaknesses by inflicting harm across the border.” Afghanistan’s Taliban administration maintains that it does not shelter militants launching attacks into Pakistan.
| Location | Fatalities | Injured | Target | Attack Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Islamabad | 40 | 160+ | Shia mosque | Suicide bombing |
| Bannu | 2 military | Unknown | Military convoy | Car bomb and gunfire |
| Behsud, Nangarhar | 17 | Unknown | House / camp | Airstrike |
Border Tensions and Humanitarian Impact
Frequent flare-ups along the long border have forced regular crossings to close, hampering trade and civilian movement. Although a fragile ceasefire was agreed upon after last October’s clashes, continued attacks and counter-accusations have prevented a lasting peace.
Humanitarian observers have expressed concern over the attacks, highlighting the severe toll on civilians, especially women and children. The latest airstrikes underline the fragility of security in border regions and the urgent need for diplomatic engagement to prevent further civilian casualties.