Afghanistan protested against Pakistani airstrikes in Paktika that reportedly killed 46, including civilians. The strikes targeted TTP camps, exacerbating already tense Pakistan-Afghanistan relations marked by border disputes and allegations of terrorism. The Afghan government condemned the attacks, while Pakistan defended them as necessary counter-terrorism operations.
On Wednesday, Afghanistan’s foreign ministry summoned Pakistan’s chief diplomat in Kabul to lodge a formal complaint regarding airstrikes conducted by Pakistani forces on the previous day. Pakistani military officials confirmed that fighter jets targeted alleged camps belonging to the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in Paktika province, claiming to neutralize multiple suspected terrorists. However, Afghan officials reported significant civilian casualties, including children, and condemned the bombings as an unwarranted violation of their sovereignty. Afghan government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid reported that at least 46 people, including local residents and Pakistani refugees, lost their lives in the attack. Meanwhile, Pakistani representatives insisted that the strikes were aimed at terrorist hideouts and categorized claims of civilian harm as misleading.
The ongoing tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have been compounded by recurring border skirmishes, with Pakistan urging the Afghan government to take action against TTP factions allegedly using Afghan territory for launching attacks. Afghanistan has consistently denied these allegations. Recently, diplomatic engagements have attempted to ease these strains, but the relationship remains fraught with mistrust and accusations. The Pakistani military has conducted operations in Afghanistan, arguing that they are necessary to counter terrorism emanating from across the border.
In summary, the diplomatic relationship between Afghanistan and Pakistan appears to be increasingly strained following the recent airstrikes in Paktika province. While Pakistan insists on the necessity of military interventions against TTP hideouts, the Afghan government vehemently condemns such actions as violations of sovereignty and detrimental to bilateral relations. It is evident that further dialogue and resolution efforts are necessary to prevent escalation and to address the complexities of counter-terrorism in the region.
Original Source: www.dawn.com
