Cross-border hostilities between Pakistan and Afghanistan intensified this week after Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Asif declared "open war" against the Afghan Taliban government in a social media post on Friday morning. The announcement followed reported Pakistani airstrikes targeting major Afghan cities, which authorities claimed were retaliation for recent attacks on Pakistani troops.
According to Afghan sources, retaliatory operations were swiftly launched against Pakistani military positions in Kandahar and Helmand provinces. The escalating violence has drawn urgent calls for de-escalation from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who emphasized the need for dialogue to prevent further civilian casualties.
Residents of Kabul reported heightened security measures in the Afghan capital, with local markets operating cautiously amid fears of prolonged instability. Analysts warn that the clashes could destabilize regional security frameworks, particularly affecting trade routes and humanitarian aid distribution.
Business leaders across Asia are closely monitoring the situation, given potential impacts on cross-border logistics and energy corridors. Meanwhile, diaspora communities from both nations have expressed concern for family members in conflict zones.
