Pakistan conducts airstrikes in Afghanistan, resulting in civilian casualties

Pakistan conducted airstrikes overnight on two provinces in Afghanistan, according to reports from both countries. The Taliban government in Afghanistan stated that at least nine civilians, including women and children, were killed, and 11 others were injured. In contrast, Pakistani authorities reported that the strikes targeted militant hideouts, resulting in the deaths of 22 militants. The casualty figures from both sides have not been independently verified. The airstrikes occurred amid heightened tensions between the two nations, which have escalated since the Taliban took power in 2021. The Afghan government spokesman reported that three civilian homes in Helmand and Kunar provinces were struck, while residents claimed there was no military presence in the area. Zabihullah Mujahid, a Taliban spokesperson, condemned the airstrikes as an act of aggression. Pakistan's Ministry of Information stated that the strikes were well-planned and aimed to minimize collateral damage. This incident marks the third time in two weeks that Pakistan has targeted locations in Afghanistan. Islamabad has accused the Taliban of harboring militants responsible for attacks in Pakistan, a claim that Afghanistan denies. The United Nations reported that over 1,100 civilians have been killed or injured in Afghanistan due to the ongoing cross-border conflict this year.