Taliban Launch Retaliatory Strikes on Pakistani Troops Along Northern Border

Afghan Taliban Confirm 'Retaliatory' Border Attacks on Pakistan KABUL, Afghanistan - The Taliban government confirmed Thursday that it launched "retaliatory operations" against Pakistani troops in multiple locations along the northern border, following a claim by Islamabad that Afghan airspace was violated and a market bombed. The confirmation came after Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi stated that the attacks were "unprovoked" and civilians were fired at. Naqvi warned that Pakistan's forces would respond "with a stone for every brick." He also condemned the Taliban's actions, saying, "The firing by Afghan forces on civilian populations is a blatant violation of international laws." According to sources, both sides used small arms and artillery in the Kunar-Kurram region. The BBC reported that the attacks were part of a larger escalation along the border. Pakistan has accused Afghanistan of harboring terrorists who target its soil, a claim rejected by the Taliban government. This latest development marks a significant escalation in tensions between the two countries. Background on the issue is complex and multifaceted. Pakistan has long accused Afghanistan of allowing terrorist groups to operate within its borders, which Islamabad claims have carried out attacks on Pakistani soil. The Taliban government has consistently denied these allegations. In response to the recent market bombing claim, the Afghan government stated that it would investigate the incident. However, the Taliban's confirmation of retaliatory operations suggests a more aggressive stance. The situation remains volatile, with both sides trading accusations and threats. As tensions continue to rise, international observers are closely watching developments along the border. Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi emphasized the need for restraint, stating that his country would respond proportionally to any further aggression from Afghanistan. The Taliban government has yet to comment on Pakistan's response plans. The conflict highlights deep-seated issues between the two nations, including long-standing disputes over territory and security concerns. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains unclear what steps will be taken to de-escalate tensions and prevent further violence along the border. *Reporting by Bbc.*