The United States has reaffirmed its support for Pakistan’s sovereign right to defend itself against attacks attributed to the Afghan Taliban, as military confrontations along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border continue to escalate. This development comes amid Operation Ghazib lil-Haq, a Pakistani military campaign aimed at neutralizing Taliban militants operating near the border regions.
US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker reached out to Pakistan’s foreign secretary to express condolences over the casualties suffered during recent hostilities. In her communication, she emphasized Washington’s close monitoring of the situation and reiterated the US commitment to Pakistan’s security and territorial integrity. This diplomatic engagement highlights the strategic importance the United States places on stability in the region, especially given the complex dynamics following the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar provided updated figures on the ongoing military operations against the Taliban. He revealed that since the launch of Operation Ghazib lil-Haq, Pakistani forces have successfully killed 331 Taliban fighters and injured over 500 militants. Furthermore, the military has destroyed 104 Taliban posts and captured 22 positions, demonstrating significant operational progress. These figures underscore the intensity and scale of Pakistan’s efforts to curb cross-border militancy and secure its frontier areas.
On the ground, security officials confirmed a recent retaliatory strike by the Pakistan Army in the Qila Saifullah sector of Balochistan, where the Afghan Taliban’s Aala Jirga Thana post was demolished. This action forms part of a broader campaign involving both ground assaults and aerial bombardments targeting Taliban strongholds. Overnight operations included airstrikes by the Pakistan Air Force against Taliban brigade and battalion headquarters in Afghanistan’s Nangarhar province, as well as the capture and subsequent destruction of the New Afghan 8 post. Additionally, a Taliban installation in the Noshki sector was reportedly razed, reflecting the sustained pressure Pakistani forces are applying on militant hideouts.
In light of the heightened security situation, the US Mission in Pakistan issued an advisory urging American citizens residing in the country to exercise increased caution. The advisory highlighted that Pakistani security agencies have intensified their presence in major urban centers due to potential terrorist threats linked to the ongoing conflict. It specifically warned that law enforcement facilities, military installations, and large commercial hubs could be vulnerable targets, advising US nationals to remain vigilant, particularly during peak hours when crowds are larger.
On the international front, the European Union’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, called for both Pakistan and Afghanistan to de-escalate tensions and engage in constructive dialogue. She stressed that Afghan territory must not be used as a base for launching attacks against neighboring countries and urged the Afghan de facto authorities to take decisive action against militant groups operating within their borders. Her appeal reflects broader concerns about regional stability and the potential for conflict spillover.
Adding to the diplomatic efforts, Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed deep concern over the rising hostilities between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Tehran called for immediate negotiations to halt the fighting and reduce tensions, emphasizing the importance of respecting each nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Iran also offered to mediate between the two sides, signaling its willingness to play a constructive role in facilitating dialogue aimed at ending the military confrontation and promoting peace in the region.
As the situation remains fluid, these developments underscore the complex geopolitical challenges facing South Asia. The ongoing clashes between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban not only threaten regional security but also highlight the urgent need for diplomatic engagement and conflict resolution mechanisms to prevent further escalation.
