Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have escalated with Pakistani airstrikes on Kabul, Kandahar, and Paktia. The Taliban government described the attacks as aggressive and launched retaliatory strikes, claiming to have captured Pakistani border posts. The United Nations has urged both sides to resolve differences through diplomacy.
On February 27, 2026, Pakistan conducted airstrikes on Afghanistan's capital Kabul, as well as Kandahar and Paktia province, in response to an Afghan cross-border attack on February 26. Afghanistan stated that its assault was retaliation for Pakistani airstrikes on February 22, which targeted alleged militants in border areas.
Afghan government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid reported three explosions in Kabul, with no immediate casualty details. He said Afghan forces launched extensive retaliatory operations against Pakistani positions in the directions of Kandahar and Helmand. Afghanistan claimed to have captured more than 15 Pakistani outposts, killed dozens of soldiers, and seized weapons. Pakistan dismissed these claims, stating no posts were captured or damaged.
Pakistan's Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said the strikes targeted Afghan Taliban defense positions. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif declared 'open war' against the Afghan Taliban. Pakistan claimed 133 Taliban operatives were killed in the operation, while Afghanistan reported 55 Pakistani soldiers dead. Pakistan countered that only two soldiers were killed.
Seven civilians were wounded near the Torkham border crossing at a refugee camp. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed concern and urged diplomacy. The Qatar-mediated ceasefire appears shaky. An Afghan claim of downing a Pakistani fighter jet remains unconfirmed, as Pakistan has not responded.
