Pakistan Declares ‘Open War’ on Afghanistan’s Taliban
Pakistan has declared an “open war” against the Taliban government in Afghanistan, escalating tensions after a series of cross-border clashes. The announcement, made by Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on February 27, 2026, followed Pakistani airstrikes targeting locations in Kabul, Kandahar, and Paktia province .
Escalation of Conflict
Asif stated, “Our patience has reached its limit. Now it is open war between us and you,” in a post on X (formerly Twitter) . Pakistani forces reportedly conducted air and ground strikes against Taliban posts, headquarters, and ammunition depots . Explosions were reported in Kabul and Kandahar, with gunfire continuing for over two hours .
Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi described the action as a “befitting response” to attacks by Afghan forces against Pakistani border troops on Thursday evening . Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed the Pakistani strikes but claimed there were no casualties .
Conflicting Casualty Reports
The Pakistani military claims 22 military targets were damaged during the night’s attack and that 274 individuals linked to the Taliban were killed . But, the Afghan Ministry of Defence reported 55 Pakistani soldiers and eight Afghan soldiers were killed during the attacks . These numbers remain unconfirmed by independent sources.
Background to the Conflict
Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have been rising for months. Deadly border clashes in October resulted in numerous casualties, including soldiers, civilians, and suspected militants . Following these clashes, explosions occurred in Kabul, which Afghan authorities attributed to Pakistan. Islamabad responded with attacks targeting alleged militant camps and hideouts within Afghanistan.
Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of harboring militants, particularly the Tehreek-e-Taliban (TTP), who are responsible for increased violence within Pakistan . The Taliban denies these accusations, stating that Pakistan’s security issues are internal matters.
International Response
Iran has offered to facilitate dialogue between Afghanistan and Pakistan . UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed concern over the escalating clashes and encouraged both parties to resolve their disagreements diplomatically .