India condemns Pakistan air strikes in Afghanistan

March 15, 2026

India has strongly condemned the recent air strikes carried out by Pakistan inside Afghanistan, describing them as “another act of aggression” that threatens regional peace and stability. The reaction came from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) after reports emerged that Pakistani military operations in Afghan territory led to civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India views the strikes with serious concern and reiterated that Afghanistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity must be respected. According to the statement, such actions undermine stability in the region and could further escalate tensions between neighbouring countries.

India also expressed solidarity with the Afghan people and emphasised the need for peaceful engagement instead of military escalation.

Civilian casualties reported in Afghan territory

Reports indicate that the air strikes targeted several areas inside Afghanistan, leading to the deaths of civilians and damage to residential infrastructure. Afghan authorities claimed that women and children were among the victims of the attacks, while multiple buildings and facilities were destroyed during the bombing.

The Afghan government condemned the strikes as a violation of its territorial sovereignty and international law. Officials in Kabul have accused Pakistan of targeting civilian locations rather than militant hideouts.

Pakistan, however, has maintained that the operation was aimed at militant camps and groups responsible for attacks within Pakistani territory.

Escalating tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan

The air strikes come amid a broader escalation of tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, with both sides accusing each other of supporting militant groups along the border. In recent weeks, clashes and cross-border incidents have intensified, raising fears of a larger conflict in the region.

Pakistan has said its strikes targeted camps linked to the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other militant organisations operating from Afghan territory. Afghan authorities deny these allegations and claim the attacks mainly hit civilian homes and public infrastructure.

The conflict has been part of a series of military confrontations that began earlier this year after deadly attacks inside Pakistan, which Islamabad blamed on militant groups allegedly operating from across the Afghan border.

India stresses respect for sovereignty and stability

In its official response, India emphasised that respect for national sovereignty and international law is essential for maintaining stability in South Asia. New Delhi urged all parties to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could worsen the situation.

India has consistently supported Afghanistan’s independence and territorial integrity, and its statement reflects concerns that continued military operations could destabilise the wider region.

Growing regional and international concern

The air strikes and subsequent reactions have drawn international attention as tensions rise in the Afghanistan-Pakistan region. Analysts warn that continued military confrontations could increase instability in South Asia and complicate diplomatic relations among neighbouring countries.

India’s condemnation highlights the seriousness with which regional powers are viewing the incident. Experts say diplomatic engagement and dialogue between the countries will be crucial to prevent further escalation and maintain peace in the region.