Cross-border fighting between Afghanistan and Pakistan has entered its fourth day, with Afghanistan reporting it thwarted attempted Pakistani airstrikes on Bagram Air Base, the former U.S. Military installation north of Kabul. Pakistan has declared it is in “open war” with Afghanistan following months of escalating clashes.
Escalation of Conflict
On Sunday, the police headquarters of Parwan province stated that Pakistani military jets entered Afghan airspace and attempted to bomb Bagram Air Base around 5am. Afghan forces reportedly responded using “anti-aircraft and missile defence systems” and successfully thwarted the attack, though Pakistan has not yet responded to the claim.
The current conflict began on Thursday when Afghanistan launched attacks along the frontier, prompting a response from Pakistani forces both on the border and through airstrikes. Pakistan has reportedly conducted airstrikes on 46 locations across Afghanistan since the operation began.
Accusations and Casualties
Islamabad accuses Afghanistan of failing to address militant groups operating within its borders that are responsible for attacks in Pakistan. The Taliban government rejects these accusations. Many attacks have been claimed by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which has increased its activity since 2021.
Pakistan’s information minister, Attaullah Tarar, stated that 415 Afghan soldiers have been killed in the strikes, while 12 Pakistani soldiers have died. Afghanistan’s deputy spokesperson, Hamdullah Fitrat, claims Pakistani fire has killed 36 civilians and that more than 80 Pakistani soldiers have been killed, with 27 military posts captured. Casualty claims from both sides remain unverified.
Diplomatic Efforts and Regional Concerns
Diplomatic efforts led by Saudi Arabia and Qatar to secure a truce have so far been unsuccessful. The conflict has raised concerns within the international community, particularly given the presence of groups like al-Qaeda and Islamic State in the region, who may seek to exploit the instability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the recent escalation in fighting?
The current fighting began on Thursday when Afghanistan launched attacks along the frontier, and Pakistani forces responded with strikes on the border and from the air.
Has Pakistan responded to Afghanistan’s claim of thwarted airstrikes?
As of Sunday, there was no immediate response from Pakistan to Afghanistan’s claim that it had thwarted attempted airstrikes on Bagram Air Base.
What is Pakistan accusing Afghanistan of?
Islamabad accuses Afghanistan of failing to act against militant groups that have been carrying out attacks in Pakistan.
Given the escalating violence and failed diplomatic efforts, what steps might be necessary to de-escalate the conflict and prevent further regional instability?