Afghan forces launch attacks on Pakistan

Taliban statement on offensive operations

"In response to repeated violations by the Pakistani military, large-scale offensive operations were launched against Pakistani military bases and military installations," said Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid on X.

Heavy attacks in eastern provinces

A military spokesman reported that Afghan forces in the eastern provinces of Nangarhar and Kunar had started “heavy attacks on Pakistani outposts.” Wahidullah Mohammadi, the eastern military spokesperson, confirmed that there were no casualties on the Afghan side.

The provincial governor’s office and local residents in Kunar also confirmed that military operations were underway. Taliban deputy spokesperson Hamdullah Fitrat stated that Afghan forces had captured 15 outposts. There was no immediate response from Pakistan regarding the Afghan claims.

Background: Pakistani strikes and civilian casualties

The Afghan offensive follows Pakistani air strikes on Nangarhar and Paktika provinces overnight into Sunday, which the UN mission in Afghanistan reported killed at least 13 civilians.

The Taliban government reported at least 18 deaths and denied Pakistan’s claim that more than 80 militants were killed. Both countries also reported cross-border fire on Tuesday, though no casualties were reported.

Escalating tensions between neighbours

Relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan have deteriorated in recent months. Land border crossings have been largely closed since deadly clashes in October, which resulted in over 70 deaths on both sides.

Islamabad accuses Afghanistan of failing to act against militant groups carrying out attacks in Pakistan, a claim the Taliban government denies. Pakistan’s latest air strikes were reportedly launched following a series of deadly suicide bombings.