Afghanistan Condemns Pakistan Airstrikes, Vows Response

February 22, 2026

Afghanistan strongly condemned Pakistani military airstrikes carried out in the eastern provinces of Paktika and Nangarhar, calling them a blatant violation of its national sovereignty and international law. Afghan officials reported that attacks hit not only suspected militant locations but also civilian and residential areas, resulting in deaths and injuries. Islamabad, however, said it struck alleged militant hideouts linked with groups such as the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and affiliates following a surge in attacks on Pakistani soil.

Kabul Rejects Claims, Highlights Civilian Harm

The Afghan Defence Ministry described the strikes as unjustified aggression and criticized the targeting of non-combatant areas. The government argued that these actions did not align with principles of good neighbourliness and pointed to international norms regarding respect for territorial integrity. Kabul’s reaction underscores a deepening hostility after months of cross-border clashes and diplomatic friction between the neighbouring countries.

Threat of ‘Calculated Response’ Escalates Tensions

In response to the airstrikes, Afghanistan’s authorities vowed to deliver a “timely, appropriate and calculated response” when the situation warrants, suggesting that Kabul may not let the incursions go unanswered. The warning reflects how rapidly tensions have escalated along the porous border, with both sides accusing each other of harbouring and enabling militant activity that fuels regional instability.

Background to the Strikes and Regional Impact

Pakistan said it conducted the airstrikes based on intelligence information, targeting alleged terrorist camps and hideouts suspected of orchestrating deadly attacks inside Pakistan. The move comes amid a rise in militant incidents, including suicide bombings in Pakistan’s northwest, believed by Islamabad to be linked to groups operating from Afghan territory. The situation has raised concerns of a broader security crisis if diplomatic avenues fail to reduce hostilities.