Pakistan’s defense minister declared an “open war” with Afghanistan on Friday, following intense cross-border clashes that saw Pakistani airstrikes hit Kabul, Kandahar, and Paktia province. Both sides report heavy casualties, with conflicting claims of destroyed posts and hundreds killed, marking the most serious confrontation since the Taliban’s 2021 takeover.
Timeline of the Latest Escalation
Tensions ignited on February 26 when Afghan Taliban forces launched what they called a “retaliatory operation” against Pakistani border positions in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, claiming to overrun 19 posts and kill 55 soldiers. Pakistan dismissed this as unprovoked aggression, responding with Operation “Ghazab Lil Haqq” (“Wrath for the Truth”), involving airstrikes on Taliban command centers, munitions sites, and alleged Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) camps deep inside Afghanistan.
Defense Minister Khawaja Asif stated Pakistan’s “patience has run out,” citing repeated TTP attacks from Afghan soil, including recent bombings in Islamabad and Bajaur. Strikes reportedly killed 274 Taliban fighters and destroyed 83 posts, per Pakistani figures, while Afghanistan countered with claims of 12 Pakistani deaths and civilian losses from hits on homes and a religious school in Paktika.
Roots of the Conflict
The flare-up stems from Islamabad’s accusations that Kabul harbors TTP militants—responsible for a surge in attacks since 2021—despite Taliban denials. Earlier strikes on February 21 targeted TTP/ISKP sites in Nangarhar and Paktika, prompting Afghan vows of response. Artillery duels in Kurram and Bajaur preceded the latest round, with witnesses reporting heavy fire near Torkham crossing.
Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid called for dialogue while condemning “sovereignty violations,” noting reconnaissance flights over Afghanistan.
Regional and International Reactions
No formal UN Security Council intervention request from Kabul has been confirmed, despite unverified social media claims. Mediators like Qatar and China, who brokered prior ceasefires, may step in as strikes risk broader instability. Analysts warn of nuclear-armed Pakistan facing battle-hardened Taliban, potentially drawing in India amid shifting Kabul ties.
Operations continue as of Friday evening, with both sides vowing no retreat. Hell and Back Co. will update as verified details emerge.
