Afghanistan has accused Pakistan of carrying out airstrikes in its eastern provinces of Khost and Paktika, with reported casualties rising dramatically to between 300 and 400 people, according to multiple sources.
Initial reports had confirmed around 40–50 deaths. However, rescue teams say the toll has surged as more bodies are being recovered from the rubble of destroyed homes.
Hospital officials report that more than 100 people have been injured, many of them critically. Women and children are believed to make up a significant proportion of the casualties, raising serious humanitarian concerns.
Afghan Government Reaction:
The Afghanistan government strongly condemned the strikes, calling them indiscriminate and unlawful.
“This cannot be justified as a military operation. It is a brutal massacre targeting innocent civilians,” an Afghan government spokesperson said.
During an emergency security meeting in Kabul, Afghan officials demanded that Pakistan take responsibility and warned of potential consequences. Reports indicate that military readiness has been heightened along the border.
Possible Retaliation:
Afghan defense sources indicate that the country may consider retaliatory measures if such attacks continue. Security analysts warn that the situation could significantly escalate tensions along the Afghanistan–Pakistan border.
International Media Coverage:
Major international outlets including BBC News, Al Jazeera, and Reuters have reported extensively on the incident.
According to these reports, the strikes hit civilian-populated villages, causing widespread destruction. Entire homes were flattened, and many families have reportedly been displaced.
Pakistan’s Response:
Pakistan military officials defended the operation, stating:
“The strikes were precise operations targeting terrorist hideouts along the border.”
Pakistan has denied deliberately targeting civilians, adding that the reports of civilian casualties are being assessed. Officials emphasized that such actions are necessary for national security.
India’s Strong Condemnation:
India strongly condemned the reported airstrikes.
“Such attacks resulting in the deaths of hundreds of civilians are unacceptable and constitute a serious violation of human rights,” India’s Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.
India also called for an independent and transparent international investigation into the incident.
UN and Global Reaction:
The United Nations expressed deep concern over the developments and called for restraint.
Global human rights organizations have urged all parties to ensure the protection of civilians and adhere to international law.
Risk of Escalation:
Experts warn that the situation risks spiraling into a broader conflict, particularly if Afghanistan proceeds with retaliatory action against Pakistan.
Summary:
- Death toll reportedly rises to 300–400
- Over 100 injured, including many women and children
- Afghanistan calls the attack a “massacre”
- Kabul signals possible retaliation
- Pakistan claims it targeted militant hideouts
- India strongly condemns the strikes
- UN calls for an independent investigation
Further clarity is expected as investigations continue and more verified information emerges from the affected regions.
