Pakistan declared it is now in “open war” with the Taliban government in Afghanistan following a series of cross-border strikes and retaliatory attacks, escalating a conflict that has simmered for months. The declaration, made Friday by Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, came hours after the Taliban announced “large-scale offensive operations” against the Pakistani military along the Durand Line, the internationally recognised but contested border between the two nations.
Pakistan has reportedly struck targets in Kabul, Kandahar and Paktika, according to Pakistani officials. The Taliban confirmed the attacks and stated their operations were in response to earlier Pakistani air strikes this week. Asif stated on X, formerly known as Twitter, that Islamabad “made every effort, both directly and through friendly countries, to keep the situation stable” and that “extensive diplomacy” had been undertaken. He added, “Our patience has reached its limit. Now it is open war. Now there will be decisive action.”
The escalating violence has prompted international calls for restraint. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern over the surge in violence and urged both nations to adhere to international law, particularly international humanitarian law, according to a statement delivered by his spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric. Guterres underscored the urgent necessitate to protect civilians.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi offered to mediate the conflict, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and good neighbourly principles, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan. In a post on X, Araghchi reaffirmed Iran’s readiness to provide assistance to facilitate constructive dialogue and promote cooperation between Kabul and Islamabad. Araghchi has been engaged in talks with the United States regarding regional conflicts, including those that could impact Iran directly.
Russia has also urged both sides to halt cross-border attacks and resolve their differences through diplomatic means, according to the RIA news agency, and has offered to mediate if both parties agree.
Former Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai stated that Afghanistan “will defend their beloved homeland with complete unity in all circumstances and will respond to aggression with courage.” He called on Pakistan to change its policy and pursue “good neighbourliness, respect, and civilised relations with Afghanistan,” also via a post on X.
Pakistan’s Defence Minister blamed the Taliban for “terrorism” and instability within the country, alleging that the Taliban has harboured groups responsible for attacks on Pakistani soil. The Pakistani government has not yet detailed specific evidence linking the Taliban directly to these attacks.
