The volatile frontier separating Pakistan and Afghanistan has once again been ignited by skirmishes that could escalate into a prolonged conflict. Cross-border firing quickly intensified into a serious confrontation between Islamabad and Kabul, with both sides reportedly using artillery, while Pakistan also carried out airstrikes. However, each side has accused the other of initiating the aggression.

For Pakistan, the issue remains closely linked to the persistent threat posed by the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Islamabad has long argued that the militant group operates freely from Afghan soil, using it as a base to carry out attacks inside Pakistan. This has raised serious concerns within Pakistan’s security establishment, which believes that decisive action is required to curb the threat. Consequently, strikes were reportedly launched at locations in the Afghan provinces of Paktika, Khost, and Nangarhar.

From Pakistan’s perspective, the situation has reached a breaking point following recent attacks in Bannu, Bajaur, and Islamabad, which resulted in the deaths of 14 security personnel and 32 civilians, while leaving hundreds injured.

The state can no longer tolerate attacks on its military and police checkpoints, as well as on civilians, while militants find refuge across the border. A military response........

© The Friday Times