Afghanistan Launches Retaliatory Attacks on Pakistan Amidst Border Tensions

February 26, 2026 – Afghanistan has initiated offensive operations against Pakistani military positions along the Durand Line, responding to Pakistani airstrikes conducted last week, according to Taliban authorities.

Escalation of Conflict

The media office of Afghanistan’s military corps in the East reported that “heavy clashes” began late Thursday “in response to the recent airstrikes carried out by Pakistani forces in Nangarhar and Paktia” provinces. Taliban government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid stated on X (formerly Twitter) that “large-scale offensive operations have been launched against Pakistani military positions and installations along the Durand Line” in response to “repeated provocations and violations by Pakistani military circles.”

The Durand Line Dispute

The 2,611-kilometer (1,622-mile) border between Afghanistan and Pakistan is known as the Durand Line. Afghanistan has not formally recognized this border, contributing to ongoing tensions between the two nations.

Recent Pakistani Strikes and Afghan Response

On Sunday, Pakistan’s military carried out strikes along the border with Afghanistan, claiming to have killed at least 70 fighters. Afghanistan refuted this claim, asserting that civilians, including women and children, were killed in the attacks. These strikes targeted alleged militant camps and hideouts, following recent suicide bombings within Pakistan. Pakistan’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting stated the operations involved “intelligence based selective targeting of seven terrorist camps and hideouts” .

Underlying Tensions and Ceasefire Attempts

The current escalation risks undermining a fragile ceasefire established in October of last year after deadly cross-border clashes. Pakistan has repeatedly urged Afghanistan’s Taliban authorities to address armed groups operating from Afghan soil, but Kabul has maintained it has not undertaken “any substantive action” to do so. The strikes by Pakistan targeted groups linked to the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and affiliates of the Islamic State in Khorasan province .

Previous Clashes and Regional Implications

Prior to the February strikes, deadly clashes occurred in October, resulting in casualties among soldiers, civilians, and suspected fighters. The ongoing conflict raises concerns about regional stability and the potential for further escalation.

More to arrive…