At least 13 people, including 11 children, were killed in airstrikes allegedly carried out by Pakistan in eastern Afghanistan, according to Afghan Taliban officials. The strikes, which reportedly targeted the provinces of Kunar, Khost and Paktika on June 10, have raised fresh concerns about escalating tensions between the neighbouring countries.

Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said the attacks struck civilian homes and resulted in the deaths of 11 children, one woman and one elderly man. He added that 14 other people, all women and children, were injured in the bombardment.

Afghanistan Condemns Alleged Violation of Airspace

The Taliban administration condemned the strikes, describing them as a violation of Afghanistan’s sovereignty and airspace. Afghan officials claimed civilian areas were hit during the operation, resulting in significant casualties and damage to residential properties.

The incident marks the latest episode in a long-running dispute between Kabul and Islamabad over border security and militant activity. Afghan authorities have repeatedly denied allegations that armed groups operate freely from Afghan territory to launch attacks against Pakistan.

Pakistan Points to Militant Threats

While Pakistan had not issued an official statement immediately after the strikes, security officials told international media that the operation targeted hideouts and facilities allegedly used by Pakistani militants operating from Afghan soil.

Islamabad has frequently accused the Taliban-led government of allowing members of the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other militant groups to use Afghanistan as a base for attacks inside Pakistan. The Taliban has consistently rejected these accusations, insisting that Pakistan’s security challenges are an internal matter.

The strikes came amid heightened security concerns following recent militant attacks inside Pakistan, particularly in border regions adjoining Afghanistan.

Fragile Ceasefire Faces New Test

The reported airstrikes threaten to undermine a fragile ceasefire agreed upon by the two countries in March 2026 after months of deadly clashes. China had played a role in encouraging dialogue and reducing hostilities between the neighbours.

Analysts warn that the latest violence could jeopardise ongoing efforts to stabilise relations and prevent further escalation along the border. With civilian casualties once again at the centre of the conflict, international observers are expected to closely monitor developments and calls for restraint from both sides.

The incident underscores the continuing volatility of the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, where security concerns, militancy and diplomatic tensions remain deeply intertwined.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share