Pakistan–Afghanistan Border Clashes Escalate as Islamabad Declares “Open War”

Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan escalated sharply after renewed border clashes, with Islamabad declaring “open war” against the Afghan Taliban. Pakistan carried out airstrikes in Kabul, Kandahar and Paktia under Operation Ghazab Lil Haq, hours after Afghan forces attacked Pakistani border posts in retaliation for earlier strikes. Both sides claimed heavy casualties, though figures varied widely. Civilians were wounded near the Torkham border, prompting evacuations on both sides. The escalation has weakened a fragile ceasefire, even as the UN urged restraint and protection of civilians.