Afghan officials confirmed on Tuesday that Pakistani airstrikes killed 10 civilians, including nine children, in eastern Afghanistan overnight, marking a sharp escalation in cross-border tensions. Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Afghan government, stated that the attacks targeted Khost, Kunar, and Paktika provinces, with four additional injuries reported.
The strikes occurred hours before dawn on Monday, November 24, 2025, hitting residential areas in Gurbuz district. Mujahid emphasized the casualties were non-combatants, calling the action "a blatant violation of sovereignty." Cross-border clashes between Afghan and Pakistani forces have intensified this month, though neither side has formally declared a motive for the recent hostilities.
Analysts warn the incident could destabilize diplomatic efforts in the region, particularly as both nations grapple with longstanding disputes over border demarcation and security. The United Nations has yet to issue a statement, but local humanitarian groups are mobilizing aid to affected communities.
