Kabul: Pakistan conducted airstrikes in Afghanistan’s eastern Paktika province, killing 46 people, including women and children, Taliban government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said on Wednesday, as reported by international media.
“On Tuesday night, Pakistan bombarded four locations in Barmal district, leaving 46 dead and six injured, mostly children,” Mujahid was quoted as saying by AFP.
Afghanistan’s Defence Ministry condemned the strikes in a statement, describing them as “barbaric” and “clear aggression.” The ministry vowed to respond, and stressed upon the Taliban government’s commitment to defending its sovereignty.
Tensions along the border have risen since the Taliban came to power in 2021. Islamabad has accused Kabul of sheltering militants who launch attacks in Pakistan, a claim Kabul denies.