Afghanistan has accused Pakistan of violating a truce agreement after deadly air strikes in border areas killed at least 10 people. The Afghan Taliban government strongly condemned the strikes, calling them “a serious violation of sovereignty and territorial integrity.” The situation has heightened tensions between the two neighbors, who have already faced strained relations in recent months.
Deadly Strikes on Border Villages
According to Afghan officials, the air strikes took place late at night in the eastern provinces near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. Local residents reported hearing loud explosions and seeing fighter jets overhead. Afghan authorities said several houses were damaged, and at least 10 civilians were killed, including women and children.
“We consider this a clear breach of the ceasefire understanding,” a Taliban spokesperson said in a statement. “Such attacks damage trust and increase instability in the region.”
Pakistan Yet to Confirm
The Pakistani government has not officially confirmed or denied carrying out the strikes. However, security sources inside Pakistan said the operation targeted militants allegedly responsible for cross-border attacks on Pakistani security forces.
“Pakistan has the right to defend its territory,” one source said, adding that militants were using Afghan soil to plan and launch attacks. “The operation was carefully targeted against terrorist hideouts.”
Longstanding Tensions Over Militants
The border between Pakistan and Afghanistan has remained tense since the Taliban’s return to power in Kabul. Pakistan has repeatedly accused the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other groups of using Afghan territory to attack its security forces.
Islamabad has demanded that the Taliban government take action against these groups. The Taliban, however, denies supporting or harboring militants, saying it does not allow anyone to use Afghan soil against another country.
Taliban’s Strong Response
In its official reaction, the Afghan Taliban warned Pakistan against further air strikes. “Such actions are unacceptable and must stop immediately,” said Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid. “We want good relations with our neighbors, but these attacks cannot be ignored.”
The Taliban also called on Pakistan to respect Afghanistan’s sovereignty and settle differences through dialogue, not force.
Civilian Suffering
Local media in Afghanistan showed images of damaged homes and grieving families after the strikes. Witnesses said entire families were caught in the explosions while they were sleeping. Humanitarian groups have expressed concern over the growing insecurity in border villages.
“Civilians are the ones who pay the highest price when tensions rise,” one aid worker said. “These communities are already struggling with poverty and conflict.”
Calls for Restraint
The international community has urged both sides to show restraint. Diplomats from several countries, including Qatar and China, have called for immediate dialogue to avoid further escalation.
“Afghanistan and Pakistan must prioritize stability,” said one regional diplomat. “A military confrontation will only make the situation worse for both sides.”
A Fragile Peace
Earlier this year, both countries had agreed to reduce border tensions and increase communication to avoid clashes. The recent air strikes have now put that fragile understanding at risk.
Conclusion
The latest accusations mark a serious setback in Pakistan-Afghanistan relations. While Pakistan claims to be targeting militants, Afghanistan accuses it of violating sovereignty and breaking the truce.
Unless both sides return to talks, the situation may escalate further, putting civilian lives at greater risk. Regional observers say only diplomatic engagement, not military action, can bring lasting stability to the border areas.