International

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; Kabul, June 10: Pakistan has once again carried out an airstrike inside Afghanistan, resulting in the deaths of at least 13 civilians and further escalating tensions between the two neighboring countries. The Taliban administration, Pakistani military aircraft violated Afghan airspace and launched deadly attacks in several eastern provinces, causing significant civilian casualties, including the deaths of numerous children.

Taliban chief spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid stated that the strikes targeted the provinces of Khost, Kunar, and Paktika. He said that at least 13 innocent civilians were killed in the attacks, while another 14 people sustained injuries. Among those killed, 11 were reportedly children, making the incident one of the deadliest cross-border attacks in recent months.

The Taliban government strongly condemned the airstrikes, describing them as a violation of Afghanistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Officials in Kabul accused Pakistan of carrying out military operations inside Afghan territory without justification, resulting in the loss of innocent lives and creating fear among local communities living near the border.

Pakistan, however, has not officially acknowledged responsibility for the strikes. Authorities in Islamabad have yet to issue a formal statement regarding the allegations made by the Taliban administration. The absence of an official response has further fueled uncertainty surrounding the circumstances of the attack.

Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have remained highly strained since late February, with both sides accusing each other of supporting militant activities and carrying out cross-border attacks. The ongoing hostilities have claimed numerous lives on both sides of the border and raised concerns about regional stability.

Earlier efforts to reduce tensions had seen China step in as a mediator between the two countries. Diplomatic intervention led to a temporary ceasefire and a brief period of reduced hostilities. However, that fragile calm appears to have collapsed following the latest overnight strikes.

The Taliban government announced on Wednesday that the Pakistani air raids carried out during the night caused significant civilian casualties and injuries. Officials warned that continued military actions could further destabilize the region and worsen the already fragile security situation along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border.

The latest escalation highlights the continuing challenges facing relations between Kabul and Islamabad. As both countries trade accusations and military tensions rise once again, regional and international observers are closely monitoring developments amid fears that the conflict could intensify further in the coming weeks.