Pakistan in ‘open war’ with Afghanistan, with strikes in Kabul, Islamabad—The Washington
Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have erupted once again — but this time, the language is far more serious. Pakistan’s defense minister has declared what he called “open war” with the Taliban-run government in Kabul.
So what exactly is happening? And how dangerous could this escalation become for the region?
Let’s break it down clearly and calmly.
What Happened in the Last 24 Hours?
Quick Summary (Featured Snippet Optimized)
- Afghan Taliban forces launched cross-border attacks on Pakistani positions.
- Pakistan responded with airstrikes under “Operation Ghazab Lil Haqq.”
- Both sides report heavy casualties, though numbers differ sharply.
- Pakistan claims to have destroyed dozens of Taliban posts.
- Civilian casualties have been reported in Afghanistan.
- The US has publicly backed Pakistan’s right to self-defense.
Now, here’s the fuller picture.
Late Thursday, Taliban forces from Afghanistan attacked Pakistani military positions along their long and disputed 1,600-mile border. Kabul says the attacks were retaliation for earlier Pakistani bombings that allegedly killed at least 18 people.
Pakistan responded swiftly. Early Friday, Islamabad launched Operation Ghazab Lil Haqq — translated as “Operation Righteous Fury.” Airstrikes reportedly targeted areas including Kabul, Paktia, and Kandahar.
According to Taliban officials, 19 civilians were killed and 26 injured. Pakistan, meanwhile, claims it destroyed 73 Taliban posts and inflicted heavy militant casualties. Independent verification remains difficult due to the remote nature of the conflict zone.
Why Is This Happening Now?
This isn’t a new conflict — it’s a long-simmering one.
After the Taliban returned to power in 2021 following the US withdrawal, tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan steadily increased. Islamabad accuses Kabul of sheltering the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a militant group responsible for deadly attacks inside Pakistan.
The Taliban government denies formally supporting the TTP. However, recent statements from TTP leadership appear to suggest closer ties than Kabul admits.
Pakistan’s Defense Minister, Khawaja Asif, stated bluntly on social media that Pakistan’s “patience has run out,” accusing Afghanistan of exporting terrorism.
In response, Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid emphasized that Kabul still prefers dialogue over escalation.
Haven’t These Two Fought Before?
Yes — many times.
Despite deep cultural and economic ties, Pakistan and Afghanistan have a complex and often tense history. Their border, known as the Durand Line, has long been disputed.
In October last year, the two sides experienced their deadliest clash in years before agreeing to a fragile ceasefire. That truce now appears to be unraveling.
Ironically, Pakistan was once a key supporter of the Afghan Taliban during their insurgency against NATO forces. But since the Taliban’s return to power in Kabul, militant violence inside Pakistan has surged.
According to Pakistani military data, over 1,200 people were killed in militant attacks in 2025 — double the number recorded in 2021.
How Do Their Militaries Compare?
Pakistan’s Military Power
Pakistan is a nuclear-armed state with a highly structured defense system. According to the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS):
- Around 660,000 active-duty troops
- Nearly 300,000 paramilitary personnel
- Advanced air force including F-16s, Mirage jets, and JF-17s
Pakistan also maintains a sophisticated missile program and modern drone defense systems.
Afghanistan’s Taliban Forces
In contrast, Afghanistan’s military under Taliban rule:
- Estimated under 200,000 fighters
- No functioning modern air force
- Limited aircraft, mostly Soviet-era helicopters
- Increasing use of drones and asymmetric tactics
What the Taliban lack in conventional power, they compensate with guerrilla warfare experience gained over two decades of insurgency.
Could This Escalate Into a Full-Scale War?
That’s the big question.
Previous flare-ups have calmed after mediation from countries like Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Qatar. But analysts warn this round feels different because:
- Civilian casualties are rising
- Strong rhetoric from both sides
- Growing drone warfare capabilities
- Increased involvement of militant proxies
Security experts fear urban centers in Pakistan could become targets if escalation continues.
The United States has already weighed in. Under Secretary of State Allison Hooker publicly supported Pakistan’s right to defend itself — a move that could further complicate regional diplomacy.
What Does This Mean for Regional Stability?
This conflict threatens more than just two countries.
The Afghanistan–Pakistan border region is already volatile. Escalation could:
- Increase refugee flows
- Disrupt trade routes
- Strengthen extremist networks
- Destabilize South Asia
For ordinary civilians in Kabul, Peshawar, and border villages, the immediate reality is fear. Residents report sleepless nights and explosions lighting up the sky.
Key Takeaways
- Pakistan has declared “open war” after Taliban cross-border attacks.
- Airstrikes and artillery exchanges have caused civilian and military casualties.
- The dispute is deeply linked to the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
- Pakistan’s military superiority is significant, but Taliban guerrilla tactics remain effective.
- Analysts warn of possible escalation unless diplomatic mediation resumes.
As this situation unfolds, clarity is essential. The rhetoric may sound absolute — “open war” — but history shows both sides have pulled back before. The coming days will determine whether this is another flare-up or a dangerous turning point in South Asia’s fragile security landscape.
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