Pakistan has declared itself in an “open war” with Afghanistan following a series of cross-border strikes, marking a significant escalation in tensions between the neighboring nations. This development was announced by Pakistan’s defense minister, Khawaja Muhammad Asif, after overnight airstrikes targeting Kabul, Kandahar, and Paktika. These actions were prompted by attacks on Pakistani military posts along the border by Afghan Taliban forces, leading to a strong military response.
Asif stated that Pakistan had exhausted diplomatic efforts to maintain peace, accusing the Taliban of pushing the situation beyond the brink. He emphasized that Pakistan has historically played a positive role, providing refuge to millions of Afghans, yet now sees no alternative but to engage militarily (JURIST).
The hostilities intensified as both nations reported high casualties. Pakistan claimed its forces had successfully hit 22 Afghan military targets, resulting in significant Taliban casualties. Conversely, the Taliban reported that it had inflicted heavy losses on Pakistani forces, capturing bases and posts, which Pakistan denies.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif underscored the nation’s readiness to defend its sovereignty and dismissed any notion of compromise. The Taliban accused Pakistan of targeting civilian areas, which Islamabad has yet to confirm (BBC).
International reaction has been swift, with countries such as China, Iran, Russia, and the UK urging restraint. The United Nations has also called for de-escalation, noting concerns over humanitarian impacts exacerbated by existing Taliban edicts against women and girls. Diplomats from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey have been actively engaged, emphasizing the need for dialogue and restraint (Reuters).
The recent clash breaks a tenuous ceasefire established in October 2025 aimed at halting previous low-intensity confrontations. The failure of this agreement is attributed to mutual accusations of insincerity in peace negotiations. Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has pledged a “measured, decisive and befitting response” to any further provocations by the Taliban, signaling that the current situation may persist unless a diplomatic breakthrough is achieved (The Guardian).