Pakistan, Afghanistan on Edge: Tensions Escalate as 10 Afghans Killed in Border Strikes
Image Source: Internet
A fresh wave of tensions has hit the Pakistan-Afghanistan border after a series of overnight air strikes left 10 people dead, including nine children. The Taliban authorities in Afghanistan have vowed to respond to the attacks, which they blamed on Pakistan. The strikes, which occurred in the Khost province, also injured four more civilians. Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban spokesperson, condemned the attacks, stating that defending its airspace, territory, and people is a legitimate right. He warned that the Islamic Emirate will respond appropriately at the right time. The alleged Pakistani strikes come after a suicide bombing on Monday that targeted the headquarters of Pakistan's paramilitary Federal Constabulary in Peshawar, killing three officers and injuring 11. President Asif Zardari accused the 'foreign-backed Fitna al-Khawarij' of being responsible for the attack, a term used to describe the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The tensions between the two neighbors have been escalating since the Taliban returned to power in 2021. Deadly clashes in October left about 70 people dead on both sides. A Qatar and Turkey-brokered ceasefire failed to bring a lasting peace, largely due to disagreements over Pakistan's demand that Kabul act against TTP militants. The Pakistan-Afghanistan Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry has warned that thousands of shipping containers remain stalled at the border, causing an unbearable financial strain. Each container accumulates $150-$200 per day in fees. The situation has become increasingly volatile, with both countries blaming each other for the recent attacks. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the two nations will resolve their differences and restore peace along the border.
