Afghanistan says it thwarted Pakistan airstrikes on Bagram airbase

The Guardian World

by Guardian staff and agencies

March 2, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Afghanistan has reported successfully countering Pakistan’s efforts to carry out airstrikes on Bagram airbase, a former U.S. military installation north of Kabul. The cross-border conflict between the two nations entered its fourth day as both sides continued to clash in various regions of Afghanistan. This escalation began on Thursday when Afghan forces launched attacks along the shared border, prompting Pakistani troops to respond with ground and aerial strikes. Pakistan has declared the situation an “open war” with its neighbor. The fighting has intensified after months of relative calm, with sporadic clashes reported across several provinces in Afghanistan. Both sides have provided conflicting death tolls, making it difficult to determine the exact number of casualties. The involvement of military aircraft on both sides indicates a significant escalation in the conflict, raising concerns about further destabilization in the region. The renewed hostilities come amid already strained relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan, which share a long and often contentious border. Diplomatic efforts to resolve disputes have apparently failed, leading to the current open warfare. This development has drawn international attention, with many observers warning of potential broader regional instability. This situation matters because it highlights the fragile security dynamics in South Asia, where both Pakistan and Afghanistan are grappling with internal conflicts and external pressures. The escalation could lead to increased tensions with neighboring countries, disrupt regional cooperation efforts, and further complicate an already volatile area. The ongoing clashes underscore the challenges of maintaining peace in a region marked by historical rivalries and competing interests. The conflict also raises questions about the broader implications for U.S. and NATO withdrawal strategies from Afghanistan, as well as the ability of local governments to maintain stability. As both nations continue to escalate their military operations, the risk of further violence and humanitarian crises grows, making this a critical issue for global security and diplomacy.

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 3/2/2026