Pakistan launches deadly air strikes in Afghanistan, reigniting tensions

Sat Jun 13 2026 12:07:47 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Pakistan has carried out air strikes along its border with Afghanistan, killing militants and civilians, in response to alleged terrorist activities. The move revives a long‑standing conflict that has sparked international calls for a ceasefire.

Pakistan announced that four roadside and training targets were destroyed in calibrated air strikes along its eastern border, killing 26 militants and dozens of civilians, including children. The strikes come after months of relative calm following a ceasefire agreement with the Taliban. Afghan authorities confirmed casualties and condemned the attacks, while Pakistan claims they were aimed at safe havens used by terrorists. The region remains volatile, with sporadic clashes reported in recent weeks and global leaders urging restraint.

Pakistan launches deadly air strikes in Afghanistan, reigniting tensions

A Pakistani soldier standing beside a barb-wire fencing in North Waziristan — Pakistan said the strikes were in response to “recent terrorist incidents in Pakistan”. Getty Images

Pakistan’s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar announced on Wednesday that four targets had been destroyed in calibrated air strikes along its eastern border, killing 26 militants. He described the attacks as a response to “recent terrorist incidents in Pakistan” and said the targets included a training centre and an ammunition cache.

Afghanistan’s Taliban government reports that the strikes hit three provinces—Kunar, Khost and Paktika—causing the deaths of 13 people, including 11 children, one woman and an elderly man. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid condemned the attacks as a violation of peace agreements.

Pakistan has long accused Afghanistan of harbouring terrorists who carry out attacks on Pakistani soil, a claim the Taliban rejects. The latest escalation is the first since February, when fighting at the border left hundreds of casualties.

The two countries had agreed to a ceasefire last October following weeks of deadly clashes. Despite this, sporadic clashes continue, prompting world leaders to call on both sides to end hostilities.

For more background on the conflict: fighting at the border left hundreds dead and weeks of deadly clashes. A related feature explains the roots of the rivalry: Why are Afghanistan and Pakistan fighting?