Pakistan has declared an “open war” on Afghanistan, initiating overnight strikes, according to the country’s defense minister. Khawaja Mohammad Asif expressed Pakistan’s frustration, stating that they had hoped for peace in Afghanistan post the withdrawal of NATO forces. However, he accused the Taliban of aligning with India, fostering terrorism, and turning Afghanistan into a hub for militants worldwide. Asif’s remarks came after Pakistan conducted airstrikes in Kabul, Kandahar, and Paktia province in retaliation for alleged Afghan cross-border attacks.

Both countries have conflicting reports on casualties, with Afghanistan claiming 55 Pakistani soldiers killed and Pakistan reporting two soldiers dead. The Afghan Defense Ministry stated that they destroyed multiple Pakistani army posts and captured some soldiers, while Pakistan asserted a higher number of Afghan fighter casualties and captured individuals. Amid the clashes, Afghan refugees near the Torkham border were relocated to safer areas.

Pakistan had previously enforced a crackdown on undocumented migrants in 2023, leading to millions crossing into Afghanistan. The U.N. refugee agency reported 2.9 million returning to Afghanistan last year, with a significant number returning this year. The situation remains tense as both nations engage in military confrontations, with Pakistan emphasizing its armed forces’ strong response to what they perceive as unprovoked aggression.