Post by : Shakul

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said at least 28 civilians were killed and 49 others were injured following Pakistani airstrikes on targets near the Afghanistan border. The UN warned that the number of casualties could rise as injured victims continue receiving treatment in hospitals.

Pakistan Says Militants Were Targeted

Pakistan said its military operations were aimed at militant hideouts in the Afghan provinces of Paktia, Paktika and Kunar. According to Pakistani authorities, at least 25 militants were killed in the airstrikes, while four more fighters linked to the Jamaat-ul-Ahrar group died in a separate ground operation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Why Did Pakistan Launch the Airstrikes?

Pakistani officials said the strikes were carried out in response to recent terrorist attacks inside Pakistan, including an attack on a Sindh Rangers facility in Karachi. Islamabad maintains that militant groups operate from Afghan territory, an allegation repeatedly denied by the Afghan Taliban.

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Afghan Taliban Reports Higher Death Toll

The Afghan Taliban claimed the attacks caused much heavier civilian losses than reported by Pakistan. Afghan officials said at least 38 civilians were killed and more than 160 people were injured, including women and children. They alleged that one strike hit a residential house in Paktia province, and a second strike followed as local residents tried to rescue the wounded.

Tensions Between Pakistan and Afghanistan Rise

The latest military action marks Pakistan's second cross-border air operation inside Afghanistan in recent months. The strikes have raised fears of renewed conflict between the neighbouring countries, whose relations have deteriorated over accusations of cross-border militancy and security threats.

Why Is This Incident Significant?

The latest airstrikes highlight growing instability along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border and underline the security challenges facing both countries. The incident is expected to increase diplomatic tensions, attract international attention and intensify discussions on regional security, counterterrorism efforts and civilian protection during military operations.

#Pakistan #Defence #GeoPolitics #Conflicts #Military #Afghanistan