Pakistani Airstrikes in Afghanistan Lead to Civilian Casualties and Rising Tensions

Pakistani airstrikes in Afghanistan’s Paktika province on December 24 resulted in at least 15 deaths, including women and children. The Taliban condemned the strikes, claiming civilian casualties, while Pakistan aimed to target Taliban hideouts amidst rising tensions resulting from TTP militants’ activities. The strikes also highlighted the plight of Waziristani refugees affected by ongoing military conflicts.

On December 24, Pakistan conducted a series of airstrikes in the Barmal district of Paktika province, Afghanistan. The attacks resulted in the deaths of at least 15 individuals, including women and children. Seven villages were struck, causing extensive destruction, particularly in the areas of Murg Bazaar and Laman, where an entire family of five lost their lives. Local reports indicate that the airstrikes were executed by Pakistani military aircraft.

In response to the bombings, the Taliban’s Ministry of Defence issued a condemnation and vowed retaliation, asserting their right to protect their sovereignty. The Taliban claimed that among the deceased were civilians, specifically “Waziristani refugees”. Enayatullah Khwarazmi, a Taliban spokesperson, emphasized on the platform X (formerly Twitter) that the victims included predominantly displaced persons from Waziristan.

While Pakistani officials have denied involvement in the airstrikes, security sources alleged that the strikes were aimed at Taliban hideouts located near the border. This incident occurred amidst escalating tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan due to the presence of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants. Pakistan has accused Afghanistan’s Taliban of sheltering TTP fighters who have been increasingly targeting Pakistani forces, a claim that the Afghan Taliban has categorically denied.

The casualties from the airstrikes included Waziristani refugees, who represent civilians displaced by military operations in Pakistan’s tribal regions. Islamabad has asserted that numerous TTP leaders have found sanctuary in Afghanistan under Taliban protection; however, Afghan officials disputed this assertion, stressing the loss of civilian lives. These events transpired soon after Mohammad Sadiq, Pakistan’s special representative for Afghanistan, visited Kabul for trade negotiations, raising concerns regarding the worsening diplomatic relations between the two countries.

The situation involving Pakistani airstrikes in Afghanistan is situated within a broader context of regional tensions. The frequent clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan over the presence of TTP militants on Afghan soil have led to increased military actions. With Pakistan accusing Afghanistan of harboring these insurgents, the repercussions often manifest in civilian casualties, particularly among refugees displaced from conflict zones. The Waziristani refugees, specifically mentioned in this incident, highlight the complex dynamics of military operations and the humanitarian impact on civilians caught in the conflict. Diplomatic talks, such as those held by Mohammad Sadiq, have not quelled the rising discord between the two nations.

The airstrikes carried out by Pakistan in Afghanistan’s Paktika province have resulted in significant civilian casualties, raising new tensions between the two nations. The Taliban’s vow for retaliation highlights the potential escalation of conflict in the region. The allegations regarding TTP militants continue to fuel claims of sheltering and protection on Afghan soil. As diplomatic relations appear to deteriorate further, the humanitarian implications for refugees and local civilians remain critical.

Original Source: www.newsbytesapp.com