Pakistan airstrikes in Afghanistan kill three as tensions escalate

Pakistan conducted airstrikes on Afghan territory, resulting in at least three deaths and multiple injuries, according to reports from the region. The military action represents a dramatic escalation in tensions between Islamabad and Kabul that have been steadily mounting in recent weeks.

The Taliban government in Afghanistan had previously warned that it would respond to any Pakistani military incursions into its territory. The militant group has consistently rejected Pakistan's claims that armed organisations operating within Afghanistan's borders conduct cross-border recruitment, training and attacks against Pakistan.

Spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid dismissed Pakistan's allegations in recent remarks to international media outlets, stating that Afghanistan does not serve as a base for groups targeting Pakistani civilians or military installations. The denial comes as part of a broader dispute over security matters along the volatile Pakistan-Afghanistan border.

The current crisis represents the most serious military confrontation between the two nations in several years, raising concerns among regional observers about potential further escalation. Both countries have a history of cross-border tensions, though direct military strikes of this nature have become increasingly rare in recent times.

The incident underscores the complex security challenges facing the Taliban administration as it consolidates control over Afghanistan, while simultaneously managing relations with neighbouring Pakistan amid mutual accusations over militant group activities.