Tensions escalate as Pakistan conducts cross-border strikes following attacks by Taliban-linked militants
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s security forces responded decisively after Afghan Taliban fighters opened unprovoked fire along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, Prime Minister’s spokesperson Mosharraf Zaidi said Tuesday. The exchange occurred in the Torkham and Tirah sectors, he added, warning that any further provocation would be met with a swift and forceful response.
Over the past weekend, Pakistan carried out overnight air strikes in Nangarhar and Paktika provinces, targeting terrorist camps linked to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K). Officials reported that over 80 militants were killed. The operations were conducted in retaliation for a series of recent attacks inside Pakistan, including a suicide bombing at an imambargah in Islamabad and assaults in Bannu and Bajaur.
Security sources noted that militant violence has surged since the Afghan Taliban returned to power in 2021, with Pakistan repeatedly urging Kabul to take action against cross-border sanctuaries. Tensions peaked after a February 16 suicide attack at a Bajaur security post killed 11 soldiers and a civilian girl, with the TTP claiming responsibility.
The latest clashes mark one of the most serious escalations along the border since October last year, highlighting the deepening rift and the ongoing threat posed by militants operating from Afghan soil.
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