Pakistan has declared an 'open war' against Afghanistan following a series of cross-border attacks, launching military operations in retaliation for what it describes as unprovoked fire from Afghan forces.
Pakistan has officially declared an 'open war' against Afghanistan after escalating tensions along their shared border led to deadly cross-fire. The situation deteriorated significantly over the past night, with violent exchanges reported in major Afghan cities, including Kabul. In response, Pakistan initiated Operation Ghazab lil-Haq, aimed at targeting the Afghan Taliban, claiming it was provoked by indiscriminate Afghan fire crossing into its territory.
Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Mohammad Asif expressed frustration over the ongoing situation, stating that 'our patience has now run out' and emphasized that the military response represents a formal escalation in hostilities. Airstrikes coordinated by Pakistani forces targeted significant military sites within Afghanistan, raising concerns about further civilian casualties and the potential for a deeper conflict. Asif's declaration of war signals a shift in Pakistan's policy towards its western neighbor and reflects longstanding tensions regarding border security and militant control in the region.
While the Taliban regime in Afghanistan has not publicly responded to the war declaration, the lack of dialogue amidst escalating violence indicates a troubling trajectory for peace and stability in the area. The conflict not only threatens the immediate safety of civilians but may also have broader implications for regional security, worsening relations between the two nations, and impacting foreign diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalating the situation.
