World · Singapore Bureau
Pakistan says air strikes kill 28 militants; Taliban reports civilian deaths
Pakistan has claimed to have eliminated 28 militants in air strikes, marking an end to nearly three months of relative stability between the two adversaries. The Taliban has disputed the toll, reporting civilian casualties instead.
LSN Singapore ·
Pakistan's military announced it had conducted air strikes targeting militant positions, saying the operations resulted in the deaths of 28 fighters. The strikes represent a significant escalation after an extended period of reduced tensions between Islamabad and the Taliban.
The Taliban rejected Pakistan's account of the operation, asserting that civilians were killed in the bombardment rather than combatants. The militant group's statement underscores the differing narratives that typically emerge following such military operations in the region.
The air strikes effectively terminate a three-month stretch of relative calm that had characterised relations between Pakistan and the Taliban. This period of restraint had been notable given the historical pattern of tit-for-tat military engagements between the neighbouring adversaries.
The resumption of military action raises questions about the stability of the broader region and prospects for any future dialogue between the parties. Pakistan has not provided additional details regarding the locations of the strikes or the identities of those targeted.