The Ministry of Defense of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan announced that its forces conducted a “retaliatory operation” targeting Pakistan’s security outposts along the Durand Line in response to repeated violations of Afghanistan’s airspace and territory, including airstrikes on Afghan soil.
Ķabul 24: The operation, aimed at defending Afghanistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, was successfully completed at 12:00 AM local time.
According to the Ministry’s statement, the operation was a decisive response to Pakistan’s aggressive actions, which have repeatedly breached Afghanistan’s air and land borders in recent months.
The Islamic Emirate emphasized that the strikes were intended to deter further hostile actions, asserting that its forces are fully prepared to defend the nation’s borders.
The Ministry also called on Pakistan to respect Afghanistan’s sovereignty and refrain from actions that escalate bilateral tensions.
Local reports indicate intense clashes in the Baramcha area of Helmand province as part of this retaliatory operation. In these engagements, 12 Pakistani soldiers were killed, and a DShK heavy machine gun was seized by the Islamic Emirate’s forces.
The clashes, centered along the sensitive Durand Line, highlight the operation’s intensity and the Afghan forces’ success in capturing enemy equipment.
Additionally, in Maruf district of Kandahar province, five Pakistani soldiers surrendered to the Islamic Emirate’s forces without significant resistance.
This surrender is seen as a sign of the psychological and military pressure on Pakistani troops.
The surrendered soldiers are currently held as prisoners of war, with the Islamic Emirate urging Pakistan to negotiate their release.
The Durand Line, a contentious border between Afghanistan and Pakistan, has long been a flashpoint for disputes and sporadic conflicts. The Islamic Emirate’s operation underscores its resolve to respond firmly to any incursions.
While the Ministry provided no further details on specific targets or overall casualties, local sources report heightened tensions in border areas.
This operation comes amid strained Kabul-Islamabad relations, fueled by mutual accusations of supporting insurgent groups and border violations.
The recent clashes in Baramcha and Maruf, resulting in significant Pakistani losses and surrenders, may mark a turning point in escalating tensions.The military action could have far-reaching implications for bilateral relations and regional security.
The Islamic Emirate has called on the international community to address violations of Afghanistan’s sovereignty by neighboring countries and prevent further escalations. Analysts warn that continued conflicts could destabilize South Asia, necessitating international mediation.
