Afghan Forces Strike Pakistan in Retaliation

In a retaliatory operation following attacks by the Pakistani military, Afghan forces carried out a targeted assault inside Pakistan, resulting in the deaths of 14 Pakistani soldiers and injuries to 11 others, according to the Afghan Ministry of National Defence. The operation was reported by TOLO News.

Retaliatory Strike Details

The Afghan Ministry confirmed that the operation, conducted on Friday at approximately 5:00 pm, targeted Pakistan’s main military installation in the Faizabad area of Islamabad. Afghan authorities have named the mission “Rad-ul-Zulm” (Retribution for Oppression), framing it as a direct response to prior Pakistani military actions.

Military analyst Sadiq Shinwari commented that the operation demonstrates Kabul’s capacity to strike within Pakistani territory, signalling that Afghanistan can respond to aerial attacks and assaults on its border installations with precision.

To date, the Pakistani government has not issued any official statement regarding the Afghan strike.

Escalating Cross-Border Tensions

The retaliatory attack follows a period of heightened tension along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, where discussions aimed at de-escalation have collapsed amid fears of reciprocal assaults. Local officials report that Pakistani forces have continued air and artillery strikes in Paktika and Kunar provinces in Afghanistan, intensifying security concerns.

According to Ziaurrahman Spinghar, head of Kunar’s Ministry of Information and Culture, over the past 48 hours, the Pakistani military has launched more than 271 rockets across various districts in Kunar alone, further inflaming the cross-border conflict.

Casualties and Impact

The incident underscores the fragility of diplomatic relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan, highlighting the potential for a dangerous cycle of cross-border retaliation. Analysts warn that without immediate engagement from both governments, tensions could escalate further, threatening regional stability.

Regional and Strategic Implications

Observers note that the “Rad-ul-Zulm” operation signals a significant shift in Afghanistan’s defensive posture, showing an ability to respond militarily beyond its borders. Meanwhile, the continued Pakistani rocket fire in Kunar and Paktika provinces increases the risk of further casualties and humanitarian crises in the border regions.

The international community has yet to comment on the unfolding situation, though security analysts emphasise that renewed dialogue and ceasefire mechanisms are urgently required to prevent a broader escalation of hostilities.