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Cross-border tensions are rising again as Afghanistan accuses Pakistan of killing civilians in airstrikes along the border. Islamabad says the operation targeted militant camps, but Kabul has vowed a response. Could this spark a new phase of conflict?
Afghan govt condemned the strikes, calling them a violation of the country’s sovereignty
Kabul: Tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan escalated sharply after Afghan authorities accused Pakistan of carrying out airstrikes along the border that allegedly killed dozens of civilians, including women and children.
The Afghan government condemned the strikes, calling them a violation of the country’s sovereignty and international law. Pakistan, however, said the operation targeted militant camps belonging to Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other extremist groups responsible for recent attacks inside its territory.
Taliban vows retaliation after Pakistani airstrikes; Afghanistan reacts strongly
Afghanistan’s government spokesperson said the airstrikes hit areas in the eastern provinces of Nangarhar and Paktika. According to Afghan officials, a religious seminary and several residential buildings were struck during the operation.
د پاکستاني پوځي رژيم له خوا د افغانستان د حريم د نقض په تړاو د ا.ا.ا. د ملي دفاع وزارت اعلامیه
د تیرو تجاوزونو په دوام یو ځل بیا پاکستاني پوځي رژیم د افغانستان ننگرهار او پکتیکا ولایتونو په څو ملکي سیمو، (یوې دیني مدرسې او ګڼو ملکي کورونو) هوايي بریدونه ترسره کړل... pic.twitter.com/3JIUFX5Nkb— د ملي دفاع وزارت - وزارت دفاع ملی (@MoDAfghanistan2) February 22, 2026
Authorities in Kabul claimed that many innocent civilians were killed or injured in the attack. The Afghan defence ministry warned that protecting national sovereignty and the safety of its citizens remains a priority and said an appropriate response would be considered at the right time.
Pakistan’s government defended the operation, describing it as an intelligence-based strike aimed at militant hideouts. Officials said several camps linked to TTP and allied extremist groups were targeted during the overnight operation near the border.
Pakistan maintains that these groups have been responsible for a series of deadly attacks within its territory in recent weeks. According to officials, dozens of militants were killed in the strikes.Authorities also argued that the operations were conducted to prevent cross-border terrorism and ensure the safety of Pakistani citizens.
Pakistan launches airstrikes in Afghanistan; Claims 7 TTP bases targeted
The latest escalation comes amid strained relations between the two neighbouring countries. Pakistan has repeatedly accused militant groups of using Afghan territory to plan attacks, while Afghan authorities have rejected these claims and criticised Pakistan’s military actions along the border.
Recent attacks in Pakistan’s northwestern regions have heightened security concerns, prompting stronger counter-terror operations by Pakistani forces.
The exchange of accusations highlights the fragile security situation along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border. With Kabul warning of a possible response and Islamabad insisting its actions were necessary for security, the incident risks further complicating already tense bilateral relations.
