Pakistan launches ‘Operation Ghazab-lil-Haq’ against Afghanistan; Heavy casualties claimed

ensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have escalated into open conflict after Pakistan launched ‘Operation Ghazab-ul-Haq,’ targeting multiple locations including Kabul and Kandahar.

Post Published By: Sona Saini

Updated : 27 February 2026, 9:09 AM IST

Islamabad Claims 133 Militants Killed as Border Clashes Intensify

Islamabad: The ongoing tension between Pakistan and Afghanistan now appears to be turning into an open military confrontation. Pakistan has announced the launch of "Operation Ghazb-lil-Haq" against Afghanistan. As part of this operation, airstrikes were carried out in several areas, including Kabul and Kandahar. Pakistan claims that approximately 133 Afghan fighters were killed and over 200 injured in the operation. Some reports put the total death toll at 180, although these claims could not be independently confirmed.

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Border Intensifies Retaliation

Hours after the airstrikes, the Afghan Taliban government launched a retaliatory offensive along the border. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said the attacks on border posts were in response to Pakistani attacks. Kabul claims that 55 Pakistani soldiers were killed and several posts, including two bases, were captured in a four-hour operation near the Durand Line. Pakistan denies these claims, stating that only two of its soldiers were killed and three injured.

Claim of downing fighter jet

Afghan media reports also claim that Taliban forces shot down a Pakistani fighter jet. However, it was not clarified which aircraft it was, and Pakistan has not confirmed this claim. The information war between the two countries has also intensified, with varying figures emerging.

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Political Rhetoric and International Appeals

Pakistan's Defense Minister Khawaja Asif stated that patience has reached its limit and this is open war. Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif also stated that Pakistan is fully capable of defending its sovereignty. Meanwhile, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has appealed to both sides to exercise restraint and ensure the safety of civilians under international law.

Impact on Regional Stability

The escalating military tensions between the two countries have become a concern for regional stability. Continued airstrikes and cross-border shelling are threatening the safety of civilians. Experts believe that if the situation remains unaddressed, the conflict could escalate into a wider conflict.