Pakistan Denies Airstrikes in Afghanistan, Calls Allegations Baseless; Taliban Vows Retaliation After Fatal Raid Near Durand Line

Pakistan Rejects Afghan Airstrike Claims; Taliban Vows Retaliation Amid Border Tensions

A significant escalation of tensions is unfolding along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border as Pakistan's military vehemently rejected claims by the Taliban government of having conducted airstrikes within Afghan territory. These accusations arose following an overnight incident near the contentious Durand Line, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of 10 individuals.

Pakistan's Stance: Denial and Baseless Accusations

Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, spokesperson for the Pakistan Army, addressed the nation on state broadcaster PTV, unequivocally stating, “Pakistan has not attacked Afghanistan.” He dismissed the allegations from the Afghan administration as “baseless,” adding a pointed remark that “Whenever Pakistan attacks someone, it announces it.” Chaudhry also reiterated Pakistan's longstanding stance on militant groups, asserting, "In our view, there are no good and bad Taliban."

Afghanistan's Condemnation and Promise of Response

Conversely, the Taliban government in Afghanistan issued a strong condemnation of the alleged strikes, pinpointing specific locations in Paktika, Khost, and Kunar provinces. They labeled these actions a flagrant violation of Afghanistan's sovereignty and a breach of international norms. Afghan government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid declared that Pakistan's “hostile actions” were indicative of the “ongoing failures of Pakistan’s military regime.” He emphasized Afghanistan's “legitimate right” to defend its airspace, territory, and citizens, warning that the Taliban administration would respond “at an appropriate time.” The incident underscores the volatile dynamics and deep-seated mistrust governing relations between the two neighboring nations.