In a significant development, Pakistani fighter jets launched airstrikes on four locations in Afghanistan’s eastern Paktika province on Tuesday night. The strikes reportedly targeted camps of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in the Murgha and Laman areas of Bernal district.
Security officials claim the operation resulted in multiple suspected terrorists being killed or injured. Among those reportedly present at the camps were key TTP figures, including Sher Zaman alias Mukhlis Yar, Commander Abu Hamza, Commander Akhtar Muhammad, and Umar Media, head of the group’s media operations.
The Afghan Defence Ministry confirmed the airstrikes through a statement on the social media platform X, acknowledging the involvement of Pakistani forces. However, the ministry alleged that the casualties included not only suspected militants but also civilians and children.
Details regarding the full extent of the damage and the precise number of casualties remain unclear at this time.
The airstrikes coincided with a Pakistani delegation’s visit to Kabul, led by Special Representative Ambassador Muhammad Sadiq. The delegation held talks with Interim Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani and Foreign Minister Amir Muttaqi, aiming to restart diplomatic discussions after a year-long hiatus in bilateral engagement.
The timing of the airstrikes, alongside ongoing efforts to rebuild diplomatic ties, adds complexity to the already strained relationship between the two neighboring nations. Further developments are awaited as the situation unfolds.
