Pakistan initiated retaliatory strikes in October 2025 against militant targets conducting operations from Afghan soil, reaffirming its unalienable right to defend its borders. Authorities emphasized that these operations were launched only after several cross-border attacks endangered Pakistani citizens and security forces, and that they were legal, proportionate, and in accordance with international law.

The attacks underscored Pakistan’s longstanding security problems, including the Fitnat Al Khawarij (FAK) and other extremist groups’ use of Afghan territory. Islamabad also pointed to India’s persistent attempts to employ Afghan soil for subversive activities, further destabilizing the region.

Officials of the two countries have already exchanged fiery statements. The Afghan foreign ministry blamed Pakistan for conducting air strikes on two of its eastern provinces—Nangarhar and Khost—in late August, terming the raids a “provocative act” that had killed several civilians. Afghan Defense Minister Mohammad Yaqoob alleged that Pakistan was using Afghanistan as a pretext for the shortcomings of its own security apparatus by blaming Kabul for militant attacks on its soil. His assertions were refuted by the spokesperson of Pakistan’s foreign ministry, who described them as an attempt to downplay the gravity of the situation.

Pakistan publicly condemned the Taliban regime for not honoring its commitments under the 2020 Doha Agreement and for providing militant havens that pose a direct threat to Pakistan’s stability. Concurrently, Islamabad reiterated its deep respect for Afghanistan’s sovereignty and the aspirations of the Afghan people.

Pakistani officials emphasized that their defensive actions were not directed at the Afghan people, with whom Pakistan enjoys long-standing cultural, religious, and geographic relations. Rather, the Afghan government, in Islamabad’s view, bears responsibility for allowing its territory to be used as a platform for cross-border terrorism. A Foreign Office spokesperson said, “Pakistan has always acted in the interest of the Afghan people. We have opened our borders during times of crisis, provided humanitarian assistance, and remain committed to supporting Afghanistan’s right to peace........

© The Spine Times