History of the Conflict
The current escalation of the conflict began in February 2026, when Pakistan accused Afghanistan of harboring militants from the "Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan" (TTP) and other terrorist groups, leading to a series of terrorist attacks on its territory.In response to these incidents, the Pakistani Air Force carried out airstrikes on the Afghan provinces of Nangarhar and Paktika, where, according to Islamabad, TTP and "Islamic State - Khorasan" camps were located. Afghan authorities, in turn, reported civilian casualties and condemned such actions as a violation of sovereignty.
By February 21-22, the situation had reached a critical point and escalated into a border crisis.
February 26: Afghanistan's Response
On February 26, the Afghan armed forces announced the start of an operation against Pakistan, calling it a reaction to the bombings by the Pakistani Air Force.According to Afghan authorities, the strikes targeted military facilities in Pakistan along the Durand Line, which effectively divides the two countries. Fighting broke out in several border provinces, including Khost, Paktia, and Nuristan.
Pakistani authorities claimed that Afghan forces opened fire on their border units, leading to clashes involving heavy weaponry. In response, Islamabad announced the start of a military operation against the "Taliban."
February 27: Airstrikes and Consequences
On the night of February 26-27, Pakistan carried out a series of airstrikes on Afghan territories. According to Afghan sources, the strikes targeted Kabul and other provinces.Continuous explosions were reported in several areas of the Afghan capital, as well as at military facilities. Both sides report dozens of casualties; however, independent sources have not confirmed these figures.
Additional reports indicate strikes on facilities in Nangarhar province, including ammunition depots.
Accusations and Reactions
The parties accuse each other of instigating the conflict. Afghanistan claims that its actions are self-defense against aggression from Pakistan, while the latter insists that it is responding to "unprovoked attacks" from Afghan forces and terrorist elements on its territory.Pakistan's Defense Minister Khawaja Asif noted that the conflict has entered into open confrontation.
Danger of Further Escalation
The situation is escalating against the backdrop of long-standing strained relations between the two countries and disputes over the Durand Line, which Afghan authorities do not recognize. Analysts warn that the current escalation is one of the most serious in recent years and could lead to a larger conflict if the parties do not return to peace negotiations.Photo on the main page is illustrative: RIA "Novosti".
