Pakistan launches border strikes on Afghanistan
France 24
by FRANCE24February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Pakistan conducted targeted military operations along its border with Afghanistan early Sunday, striking areas it identified as hideouts for Pakistani-linked militants believed responsible for recent attacks within Pakistan. The Afghan Red Crescent Society reported that over a dozen individuals were killed in these strikes. While Pakistan did not specify the exact locations of the targets, the Afghan Defense Ministry revealed that "various civilian areas" in Nangarhar and Paktika provinces were affected, including a religious madrassa and several residential homes.
The move by Pakistan comes amid escalating tensions as both nations grapple with cross-border militant activity. The government in Islamabad has consistently blamed these groups for carrying out attacks on Pakistani soil, leading to increased military actions along the shared border. This latest offensive underscores the complex security dynamics between the two neighboring countries, where militants often use remote regions as bases for operations.
The strikes have sparked concern among humanitarian organizations due to the reported civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure. The targeting of a madrassa, which serves as both a religious institution and a community center, highlights the broader impact on local populations caught in the crossfire. Such incidents raise questions about the efficacy of military operations in reducing violence while also adhering to international humanitarian laws.
For readers interested in global politics and regional stability, this development underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Pakistan and Afghanistan in addressing transnational security threats. The operation not only reflects the fragile state of bilateral relations but also highlights the broader implications for peace and stability in South Asia. As both nations navigate these complexities, the focus remains on whether such military actions will effectively disrupt militant networks or further escalate tensions in the region.
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Originally published on France 24 on 2/22/2026