Tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan have sharply escalated following reports of civilian casualties in cross-border strikes. Afghanistan has issued a stern warning to Pakistan, stating that any response from Kabul would specifically target Pakistani military personnel rather than civilians.
According to a report published by TOLOnews on Tuesday (February 24), Afghan government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid declared that Afghan forces would respond directly to members of Pakistan’s military if attacks continue.
Civilian Casualties at the Center of Dispute
Mujahid emphasized that while Pakistani forces allegedly targeted civilian populations, Afghanistan has no intention of retaliating against non-combatants. Instead, he stated that any countermeasure would focus strictly on military targets.
He further accused a specific faction within Pakistan—allegedly acting under the direction of foreign powers—of attempting to destabilize the region. Although no direct evidence was presented, the remarks signal rising mistrust between the neighboring countries.
Clashing Claims Over TTP
At the heart of the dispute is the issue of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Pakistan has claimed that its recent airstrikes targeted TTP hideouts inside Afghan territory. According to Islamabad, at least 80 TTP fighters were killed in the strikes conducted early Sunday (February 22).
However, Mujahid questioned Pakistan’s claims, asking whether the women and children reportedly killed in the strikes were members of the TTP. He accused the Pakistani military of using anti-TTP operations as a pretext to carry out attacks inside Afghanistan, resulting in civilian deaths.
Border Tensions and the Durand Line
Afghan officials have reportedly visited the affected areas to assess the damage. Mujahid raised concerns over border security, referencing the long-disputed Durand Line, which separates Afghanistan and Pakistan.
He argued that even sick individuals struggle to cross the heavily monitored border, questioning how TTP members could allegedly move freely across it. Afghan authorities also denied any involvement in recent attacks or security incidents within Pakistan, labeling them as Pakistan’s internal matters.
Declaration of Retaliation
In a firm statement, Mujahid outlined Afghanistan’s intended course of action:
“First, we will respond to such illegal measures. Second, we will strengthen our security. Third, we will thwart any conspiracy.”
The latest developments follow Pakistani airstrikes carried out at dawn on Sunday inside Afghanistan and in border-adjacent areas. While Pakistan maintains that the operation successfully neutralized dozens of militants, Afghanistan insists that civilians were among the casualties.
Rising Regional Concerns
Observers fear that the situation could further inflame already fragile relations between the two countries. Cross-border accusations, disputes over militant safe havens, and disagreements regarding the Durand Line have long strained ties between Kabul and Islamabad.
With both sides hardening their rhetoric, the risk of further military confrontation remains significant. Regional stability may depend on diplomatic engagement and transparent investigations into the reported civilian casualties.
