Pakistan Cries Foul on Terrorism, Attacks Afghanistan Killing 15! How Will Taliban React?

On December 24, 2024, Pakistan launched a series of deadly airstrikes on Afghanistan's Barmal district in Paktika province, resulting in the tragic deaths of at least 15 people, including women and children. As rescue efforts continue, the death toll is expected to rise. The attack has sparked widespread condemnation and raised critical questions about the future of Afghanistan-Pakistan relations.

The Deadly Airstrike - Pakistan's Attack on Afghanistan

The strikes targeted several villages, including Laman, where five members of a single family perished. Murg Bazaar, another area struck, experienced significant damage. According to reports, the airstrikes were carried out by Pakistani jets, marking a dramatic escalation in cross-border tensions. Pakistani officials argue that the airstrikes were a necessary response to the growing threat of terrorism, particularly from the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which has found refuge in Afghanistan.

Escalating Tensions Between Pakistan and Afghanistan

Pakistan’s accusations that the Afghan Taliban is harboring TTP militants have been a point of contention for months. Islamabad blames the Afghan Taliban for allowing TTP fighters to operate from Afghan territory, staging numerous attacks on Pakistani forces. Despite these claims, the Afghan Taliban has denied sheltering the militants, instead asserting that civilians were the victims of the recent airstrikes. This continued friction highlights the complex relationship between the two countries, where both sides accuse each other of supporting terrorism.

How Will the Taliban React to Pakistan's Attack?

In the wake of the airstrikes, the Taliban's Ministry of Defense swiftly condemned Pakistan's actions, calling it a "blatant act of aggression" and a violation of international principles. They declared their right to retaliate, emphasising that defending Afghanistan’s sovereignty was an inalienable right. The Taliban's strong condemnation and promise of retaliation signal a further deterioration in diplomatic ties.

The attack came shortly after a visit by Pakistan’s special representative to Kabul, fueling speculation about a potential breakdown in the fragile diplomatic relations between the two countries. As the situation continues to develop, the question remains: how far will the Taliban go in their response, and will this conflict spill over into further violence? The world watches closely as tensions rise on both sides.