Pakistan Launches Air Strikes in Afghanistan, Killing 13 Civilians Including 11 Children

Pakistan initiated air strikes across its border with Afghanistan, ending months of reduced hostilities. Pakistani Information Minister Attaullah Tarar stated that four targets were destroyed in "calibrated strikes" and that 26 militants were killed.

However, the Taliban government in Afghanistan reported that 13 individuals, including 11 children, a woman, and an elderly man, were killed in Pakistani strikes across Kunar, Khost, and Paktika provinces.

Pakistan has consistently accused Afghanistan of sheltering militants who carry out attacks within Pakistan. The Taliban administration refutes these claims, asserting its territory is not used to jeopardise other nations' security.

These latest strikes represent the first significant escalation since clashes in February resulted in hundreds of fatalities. Both nations had agreed to a ceasefire in October following weeks of deadly confrontations.

Tarar justified the strikes as a response to "recent terrorist incidents in Pakistan," targeting what he described as "hideouts and safe havens," including a training facility and an ammunition depot. He emphasised Pakistan's commitment to regional peace while prioritising the safety of its citizens.

Despite Afghanistan's denials of providing sanctuary to militants, sporadic clashes have persisted since the intense fighting in late February, prompting international calls for a cessation of hostilities.