Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have exploded into what Pakistani officials are calling an “open war”, after Pakistan carried out airstrikes on major Afghan cities, including the capital Kabul.
The strikes mark a dramatic escalation following months of worsening relations, deadly border clashes, and accusations of cross-border militancy.
According to reports from officials in both countries, the situation has moved far beyond diplomatic disputes and into direct military confrontation.
Where Did Pakistan Strike?
Pakistani airstrikes reportedly hit:
Kabul – Afghanistan’s capital
Kandahar – The Taliban’s spiritual stronghold
Paktia Province – A key border region
Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid confirmed the attacks, stating that Kandahar — where the Taliban’s supreme leader Haibatullah Akhundzada resides — was among the targets.
At the time of reporting, there was no confirmed death toll from either side.
Why Did Pakistan Launch the Strikes?
The airstrikes came just hours after Afghan troops reportedly attacked Pakistani border positions. Officials in Afghanistan described their action as retaliation for earlier Pakistani strikes earlier in the week.
Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif issued a strong statement on social media:
“Our cup of patience has overflowed. Now it is open war between us and you.”
This public declaration suggests Islamabad views the conflict as no longer limited to border skirmishes.
The Core Dispute: Pakistani Taliban Safe Havens
At the heart of the crisis lies Pakistan’s long-standing accusation that the Afghan Taliban government is sheltering militants from the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
What Is the TTP?
A militant group fighting against the Pakistani state
Responsible for numerous attacks on Pakistani security forces
Claimed responsibility for a suicide bombing at a courthouse in Islamabad last autumn, killing at least 12 people
Pakistan insists that TTP fighters are operating from Afghan soil with protection from Taliban authorities.
However, the Taliban government has repeatedly denied hosting or supporting the group.
Months of Rising Border Tensions
Relations between the two neighbouring countries have steadily worsened over the past year.
Key Developments:
Frequent cross-border shelling
Deadly clashes along disputed frontier areas
Diplomatic talks failing to produce lasting peace
Accusations and counter-accusations from both governments
Efforts by regional mediators including Qatar, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia led to a cease-fire in October.
However, the truce proved fragile and was repeatedly undermined by continued border clashes.
Ramadan Peace Hopes Shattered
The escalation comes during the holy month of Ramadan, a period when United Nations officials had hoped tensions might ease.
Diplomats believed the spiritual significance of Ramadan could help reopen dialogue between Islamabad and Kabul. Instead, violence has intensified.
The airstrikes signal a serious setback for peace efforts in the region.
What Happens Next?
The declaration of “open war” raises serious concerns about:
A prolonged cross-border conflict
Increased civilian casualties
Regional instability
The possibility of wider international involvement
Security analysts warn that further retaliation from either side could quickly spiral into a broader regional crisis.
At present:
Casualty figures remain unconfirmed
No official ceasefire talks have been announced
Border areas remain tense
Why This Conflict Matters
Pakistan and Afghanistan share a long and volatile border. Instability between the two nations has often had global consequences, including:
Refugee movements
Terrorism threats
Disruption to regional trade
Strain on international diplomacy
With both sides now publicly exchanging military blows, the risk of escalation is higher than at any point in recent months.
Sources
Reporting by Elian Peltier from Islamabad
Reporting by Safiullah Padshah from Kabul
Statements from Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif
Taliban government spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid
As tensions grow between Islamabad and Kabul, the international community will be watching closely. Whether this becomes a prolonged military conflict or returns to the negotiating table remains uncertain — but for now, relations between the two neighbours have entered one of their most dangerous phases in years.
For Health & Fitness Products, Click => http://tinyurl.com/5n872ptd