Pakistani military launched airstrikes in Afghanistan on Sunday targeting militant groups, with dozens reported killed and wounded.
Retaliatory Attacks
Pakistani military conducted airstrikes in Afghanistan on Sunday morning, reportedly targeting “hiding camps” of armed groups responsible for recent attacks, including a bombing at a Shia mosque in Islamabad. Pakistan also stated that an organization linked to the Islamic State was attacked.
Islamabad emphasized it had repeatedly called on the Taliban government in Afghanistan to take actions to prevent armed groups from using Afghan territory for attacks, but claimed Kabul did not take “any significant actions.”
Pakistani Position
“Pakistan has always sought to maintain peace and stability in the region,” stated officials. Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry declared, “Pakistan will defend every inch of its territory,” while posting a recording of the attacks.
Afghan Response
Afghan Ministry of Defense condemned Pakistan’s actions, stating they hit a religious school and residential buildings, resulting in dozens killed and wounded, including women and children.
Al Jazeera, citing sources, reported at least 17 people killed in one province, with the casualty toll in the second attacked province still unknown.