Feb 25 • 09:58 UTC 🇶🇦 Qatar Al Jazeera

Pakistan braces and arrests dozens in anticipation of retaliatory attacks following its strikes in Afghanistan

Pakistan has heightened security measures and arrested dozens of individuals in anticipation of retaliatory attacks after its airstrikes in Afghanistan killed 25 people last week.

Pakistan has ramped up security measures and detained numerous individuals in anticipation of potential retaliation following its recent airstrikes in Afghanistan that resulted in the deaths of 25 people in the eastern region. Pakistani Interior Deputy Minister Talal Chaudhry stated that the nation is prepared to handle any imminent attacks, mentioning that militants typically respond when their hideouts in Afghanistan are targeted. The airstrikes, conducted last Sunday, focused on seven sites believed to be terrorist camps linked to the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan and the Islamic State's Khurasan branch, according to intelligence reports.

Following the strikes, the Afghan Defense Ministry declared that it would respond to the attacks at an appropriate and calculated time, officially stating that the Pakistani military operations targeted civilian areas. Pakistan continues to allege that leaders of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan operate from Afghan soil, a claim that Kabul firmly denies. The growing tensions have been highlighted by incidents of cross-border gunfire, with clashes reported between Pakistani and Afghan forces, both accusing the other of commencing hostilities.

The situation poses significant implications for regional stability, as the ongoing conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan over border security and militant activity spotlights the fragile relationships in South Asia. The reciprocal blame and military actions could potentially escalate further violence and complicate diplomatic relations, underlining the importance of dialogue and cooperation to manage security issues in the region.

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