Deadly Pakistani Air Strikes Hit Kabul and Kandahar Amid Border War

At least three civilians were killed and 15 others wounded following a midnight air strike conducted by the Pakistani Air Force on residential areas in Kabul. The attack marks a significant escalation in the ongoing border hostilities between the two neighboring nations.

According to reports from the "Sada-e-Afghan" channel, Pakistani warplanes targeted a residential home in Kabul’s 21st municipal district. Afghan officials have condemned the strike, describing it as a "continuation of crimes" committed by the Pakistani military regime.

Widespread Bombing Reported

Zabiullah Mujahid, the official spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, confirmed that the strikes were not limited to the capital. In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), Mujahid reported that Pakistani forces also bombed targets in Kandahar, Paktia, Paktika, and several other provinces.

"In some areas, civilian homes were targeted, leading to the martyrdom of women and children. In other locations, empty deserts and uninhabited areas were struck," Mujahid stated. He further emphasized the timing of the strikes, noting they occurred during the last ten days of Ramadan, which he claimed "clearly demonstrates a lack of humanitarian principles and moral values."

Strategic Targets Hit

Beyond residential areas, Mujahid reported that Pakistani aircraft targeted fuel storage facilities belonging to the private airline Kam Air near Kandahar Airport. These facilities are critical for providing fuel to civilian airliners as well as United Nations aircraft operating in the region.

Background of the Conflict

The current flare-up follows a military operation launched by Afghanistan in late February along the "Durand Line"—the disputed border between the two countries. That operation was a retaliation for previous Pakistani aerial bombardments. Pakistan has since declared the situation a "state of open war," responding to Afghan movements with intensified fire.

The Islamic Emirate has vowed that this "blatant aggression" will not go unanswered.