Islamabad has intensified its military posture towards Kabul, announcing an “open war” as a result of recent airstrikes targeting regions in Kabul, Kandahar, and Paktia. The sharp increase in hostilities was highlighted by remarks from Khawaja Asif, Pakistan’s Defence Minister, who expressed Islamabad’s frustration with the Taliban-led administration for allegedly sheltering militants. The defence minister’s declaration was made through a post on X, emphasizing that patience had worn thin. According to Asif, the aftermath of NATO’s withdrawal from Afghanistan was expected to lead to stability, yet he accused the Taliban of fostering terrorism and violating the rights of Afghan citizens, particularly women. His statement included a direct warning that this situation has escalated to a level of open conflict between the two nations.

Response from Afghan Authorities

In reaction to the airstrikes, Zabihullah Mujahid, a spokesperson for the Afghan government, denounced the Pakistani military’s actions as “cowardly.” Although Mujahid noted that there were no reported casualties from the strikes, he described the military incursions by Pakistan as aggressive and unwarranted. The response from Afghanistan comes amidst ongoing concerns over border security related to the Durand Line, a historically contentious boundary established during British colonial rule. This border has been a continuous source of tension between the two neighbors and is part of the broader conflict dynamics in the region.

Reported Casualties and Military Operations

Amid these conflicts, the Afghan Ministry of National Defence has stated that 55 Pakistani soldiers were killed during retaliatory operations along the Durand Line, which occurred on February 26, the ninth day of Ramadan. This operation was reportedly launched in direct response to prior incursions by the Pakistani military, which Afghan officials claimed violated their territorial sovereignty and led to civilian casualties. The Afghan statement detailed that in response to this aggression, two military bases and 19 posts were seized during the engagement.

Pakistan’s Counter Offensive

In light of these tensions, Pakistan has initiated a military campaign known as ‘Ghazab Lil Haq,’ targeting the Taliban regime in Afghanistan. Officials from the Pakistani government have claimed significant operational success, asserting that 133 Afghan Taliban fighters were killed, with over 200 injured as a result of the counteroffensive. They also reported destroying 27 Taliban posts and capturing nine others, signaling a shift in the military balance along the border.

Implications for Regional Stability

The current military actions and rhetorical exchanges between Pakistan and Afghanistan raise concerns about escalating violence and instability in the region. The long-standing historical grievances and recent military confrontations suggest that the situation may not resolve easily, impacting not only Afghan and Pakistani citizens but also regional security dynamics. As the conflict develops, both governments continue to assert their positions, making diplomatic resolutions increasingly challenging.

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