Afghanistan’s foreign ministry has summoned the Pakistani envoy to protest airstrikes in Paktika province, claiming 46 casualties, while Pakistan asserts the strikes targeted TTP militants. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between the two nations over border security and terrorism allegations.
On Wednesday, Afghanistan’s foreign office summoned the head of the Pakistani mission in Kabul to formally protest airstrikes conducted by Pakistani forces in Paktika province. The strikes, which reportedly targeted camps belonging to the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), resulted in significant casualties, according to Afghan officials. The Afghan government claims that 46 individuals were killed, including local civilians and Pakistani migrants, during these operations, while Pakistan’s security officials maintained that the strikes were aimed solely at TTP militants.
The strained relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have been exacerbated by ongoing border skirmishes and accusations from Islamabad regarding the TTP’s activities on Afghan soil. Despite Pakistani claims that many TTP operatives are based in Afghanistan, the Afghan government denies these allegations, complicating diplomatic efforts. Recent discussions aimed at resuming dialogue between the two nations were taking place just prior to the airstrikes, highlighting the fragility of their relations during this period of diplomatic engagement.
The airstrikes in Paktika province have sparked a renewed diplomatic dispute between Pakistan and Afghanistan, reflecting the ongoing tensions regarding security and military operations across their shared border. Both countries maintain differing narratives about the nature and impact of these operations, indicating a need for continued dialogue to address persistent issues of terrorism and military intervention in the region.
Original Source: www.dawn.com
