Pakistan conducts military operations against militant targets in Afghanistan

On Sunday, Pakistani security forces launched ground operations and airstrikes against alleged militant strongholds in the Afghan provinces of Paktia, Paktika, and Kunar. The Pakistani government, represented by Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, reported that 29 militants associated with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Jamaat-ul-Ahrar were killed during these operations. Islamabad stated that the actions were retaliatory, following recent attacks on Pakistani soil, including an incident in Karachi that resulted in the death of three security personnel. Conversely, the Afghan Taliban authorities and reports from Tolo News disputed these claims, asserting that the strikes caused significant civilian casualties. Afghan government spokesperson Hamdullah Fitrat reported 38 civilian deaths and 163 injuries, while other local sources cited at least 35 civilian fatalities. The attacks targeted houses and alleged infrastructure used by extremist groups. The situation reflects ongoing tensions between the two nations regarding the presence of militant groups in border regions.