Afghanistan and Pakistan Exchange Deadly Fire, Raising Regional Tensions
Kabul, Afghanistan & Islamabad, pakistan – Afghanistan and Pakistan engaged in their most intense clashes in years this week, resulting in multiple fatalities and escalating regional instability. Pakistan launched airstrikes in Afghanistan on Monday, targeting what it claimed were militant hideouts, in response to attacks by Pakistani Taliban (TTP) militants operating from Afghan soil. Afghanistan’s defense ministry reported at least three deaths, including women and children, and condemned the strikes as a violation of its sovereignty. Pakistan confirmed the strikes, stating they targeted TTP members responsible for recent attacks within Pakistan.
The exchange of fire marks a notable escalation in tensions between the two neighbors,who share a long and porous border. Pakistan alleges the TTP, which has increased attacks within Pakistan, is being sheltered by the taliban-led government in Afghanistan – a claim the Taliban denies.
International reactions have been swift, with calls for de-escalation. China, which recently facilitated talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan and holds economic interests in both countries, urged “restraint and dialog.” Russia also called for a resolution “through diplomatic means.”
Former U.S. President donald Trump offered to mediate, stating, “I’m good at solving wars, I’m good at making peace,” while traveling to Israel.
Experts suggest the future of the relationship hinges on how the Taliban addresses the TTP. “in terms of the future of the relationship, a lot will depend on whether this escalation leads to a basic shift in how the Taliban deals with the TTP, which is really the main issue,” said Michael Kugelman, a senior associate for South Asia at the Wilson Center. The TTP fought alongside the Taliban against U.S. and NATO forces, and the Taliban has shown reluctance to crack down on the group.
The last airstrikes in Kabul by a foreign power were in 2022, when the U.S. killed al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri. While the violence has eased, analysts warn the recent attacks could usher in a new era of instability. Pakistan views itself as a “stability provider for the region,” but a direct attack on Afghan soil ”would cross a red line in their relations,” according to Kugelman.