The aftermath of Pakistan’s air strikes in Afghanistan
Al Jazeera
February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Pakistan’s recent air strikes in Afghanistan have sparked intense border tensions, with Kabul threatening retaliation after the attacks killed dozens of civilians, including women and children. The strikes targeted areas near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, hitting schools and residential homes in Nangarhar and Paktika provinces. According to Afghan officials, at least 23 family members were killed in one house, while scores more were injured. These actions have deepened an already volatile dispute between the two nations, which has persisted since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 2021.
The Pakistani military claims its strikes were aimed at armed groups it blames for recent suicide bombings, including those during Ramadan. However, Afghan authorities deny allowing such groups to operate from their territory and have vowed a “calculated response” to the attacks. This exchange of accusations has further strained relations, with both sides accusing each other of violating international borders.
The conflict has had dire consequences for civilians on both sides of the border. Since October 2023
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/22/2026