Strained Relations: Afghan Foreign Ministry Protests Pakistani Airstrikes in Paktika

Afghanistan’s Foreign Ministry summoned Pakistan’s envoy over recent strikes in Paktika, which allegedly killed 46 people. Pakistan claimed it targeted TTP terrorists, intensifying rising tensions between the nations. The airstrikes occurred during ongoing diplomatic talks aimed at improving relations, with Afghanistan condemning the action as a violation of sovereignty.

The Afghan Foreign Ministry summoned the Pakistani Charge d’Affaires in Kabul to issue a formal protest against strikes reportedly executed by Pakistani forces in Paktika province. The strikes, which took place on Tuesday night, targeted locations purported to be Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) camps. Afghan officials claim that as many as 46 individuals, including civilians, lost their lives in the bombing, whereas Pakistani security sources assert that at least 20 TTP terrorists were neutralized. The strikes occurred amid ongoing diplomatic talks aiming to improve strained relations between the two countries, following allegations from Pakistan that Afghanistan has harbored TTP members responsible for attacks in Pakistan. The Afghan government condemned the strikes as a violation of national sovereignty, accusing Pakistan of attempting to create discord while dialogue was underway.

The relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan has been fraught with tension, primarily due to frequent border skirmishes and allegations from Pakistan that Afghanistan harbors terrorist groups like the TTP, which conduct attacks across the border. This incident illustrates the volatility of these relations, especially in light of Pakistan’s previous military operations in Afghan territory aimed at combating terrorism. The Afghan government has vehemently denied any involvement with the TTP, complicating diplomatic discourse. The situation is further strained by internal political dynamics and the broader context of counterterrorism efforts in the region.

In summary, the recent military strikes by Pakistan in Afghanistan’s Paktika province and the subsequent Afghan protest highlight the ongoing tensions in bilateral relations. Both nations are navigating a challenging landscape characterized by accusations of harboring terrorists and a need for effective dialogue to address mutual security concerns. As diplomatic engagements resume, the potential for conflict remains high without constructive resolutions to these issues.

Original Source: www.dawn.com