Islamabad has announced a series of airstrikes targeting militant groups within Afghanistan, claiming to have killed at least 70 fighters. The strikes, conducted on February 22, 2026, represent a significant escalation in tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, following a recent surge in attacks within Pakistan attributed to groups operating across the border. The operation underscores Pakistan’s commitment to addressing security threats, but has as well drawn condemnation from Afghan officials who allege civilian casualties.
The Pakistani government asserts the strikes were a direct response to a series of suicide bombings and other attacks within its borders. Officials have specifically targeted camps and hideouts linked to Fitna al-Khawarij – a term used for the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) – as well as affiliates of the Daesh-Khorasan branch. The stated aim is to disrupt the operations of these groups and prevent further attacks on Pakistani soil. This action follows what Pakistan describes as repeated warnings to the Afghan Taliban regarding the presence of these militant groups within Afghanistan.
Details of the Airstrikes
According to Pakistani State Minister for Interior Talal Chaudhry, nearly 70 terrorists were “neutralised” in the operation. Later reports from Pakistani state media increased that figure to 80. The strikes targeted seven locations across three Afghan provinces: Nangarhar, Paktika, and Khost. Specifically, the targeted sites included “Latest Centre No. 1 and New Centre No. 2 in Nangarhar, Khwariji Maulvi Abbas Centre in Khost, Khwariji Islam Centre, Khwariji Ibrahim Centre in Nangarhar, and Khwariji Mullah Rahbar and Khwariji Mukhlis Yar in Paktika.” Geo News reports that these locations were identified as key hubs for militant activity.
President Asif Ali Zardari defended the actions, stating they reflected Pakistan’s right to defend its citizens against cross-border terrorism. He referenced a recent United Nations Security Council (UNSC) report, warning that those responsible for bloodshed inside Pakistan would not evade justice. As reported by Geo News, Zardari emphasized that Pakistan had exercised restraint by only targeting militant hideouts.
Afghan Response and Allegations of Civilian Casualties
The Afghan government has strongly condemned the strikes, summoning the Pakistani ambassador in Kabul to protest the actions. The Afghan Defense Ministry alleges that the strikes violated Afghan airspace and sovereignty, and that civilian areas were hit, including a religious school and residential homes. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid claimed that “dozens of people, including women and children” were killed and injured in the attacks. DID Press reports that Mujahid also dismissed Pakistan’s claim of killing 70 militants as inaccurate.
However, Talal Chaudhry, Pakistan’s deputy interior minister, stated that available evidence suggests many of those killed were Pakistani nationals present at the targeted sites. DID Press also notes that this claim has not been independently verified.
The conflicting accounts highlight the escalating tensions between the two nations. Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of “exporting terrorism for years,” while Afghanistan maintains its territory is not used to harbor terrorists. Deccan Herald reports that Pakistan is taking “all actions to secure the life and property of its citizens.”
The developments approach amid mounting tensions between Kabul and Islamabad following a surge in security incidents and mutual accusations in recent months. The situation remains volatile, and further escalation is possible. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, urging both sides to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to resolve their differences.
Disclaimer: This article provides informational coverage of a developing situation and should not be considered medical or legal advice.
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