Pakistan launched a series of cross-border military strikes into Afghanistan on Thursday, prompting the Foreign Office to condemn the action as a violation of international law and a threat to regional stability. The government has called for an emergency session of the United Nations Security Council.
The strikes targeted districts in Khost and Kunar provinces, according to Afghan officials. Pakistan’s Ministry of Defence confirmed the operation, describing it as a response to militant hideouts used by groups operating against Pakistani security forces.
This escalation follows months of heightened tension along the Durand Line, the disputed border between the two countries. Pakistan has repeatedly accused the Taliban administration in Kabul of harbouring Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) fighters, who have carried out attacks inside Pakistan.
The Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the strikes killed at least 15 civilians, including women and children. The ministry’s spokesman described the action as “a clear act of aggression” and reserved the right to respond.
The Foreign Office in London issued a statement expressing deep concern. “These strikes risk undermining counterterrorism efforts and destabilising an already volatile region,” a spokesperson said. “We call for immediate de-escalation and dialogue. The United Kingdom will request an urgent meeting of the UN Security Council to address this breach of sovereignty.”
Analysts note that this incident marks one of the most serious military engagements between the two neighbours since the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021. The international community has largely refrained from recognising the Taliban government, complicating diplomatic channels.
The Security Council is expected to convene within 48 hours. Diplomats indicate that the session will focus on condemning the strikes and reaffirming respect for territorial integrity. However, the absence of a unified response on Afghanistan’s recognition may limit the council’s leverage.
Regional powers, including China and Iran, have urged restraint. China’s foreign ministry called on both sides to resolve differences through consultation. Iran offered to mediate, proposing a trilateral meeting.
On the ground, residents reported fleeing border villages after the strikes. Humanitarian agencies warn that civilian casualties could further strain resources in a region already grappling with displacement and food insecurity.
The TTP, meanwhile, threatened retaliation. A statement from the group’s spokesman vowed to “avenge the blood of martyrs” and warned of attacks on Pakistani security forces.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister defended the operation in a televised address, stating that the country had a right to self-defence against cross-border terrorism. He did not comment on civilian casualties but expressed willingness to engage in dialogue with Afghanistan.
The Afghan Taliban leadership has not issued a formal response beyond the foreign ministry’s statement. However, local commanders have reportedly mobilised forces along the border, raising fears of a broader confrontation.
The current crisis underscores the fragile state of bilateral relations and the challenges facing international efforts to stabilise Afghanistan. The UN session will test the Security Council’s ability to manage such conflicts amid competing geopolitical interests.
