Pakistan has launched “Operation Ghazab-ul-Haq” in response to what officials described as unprovoked attacks by the Afghan Taliban along the Pak-Afghan border, escalating tensions between the two neighboring countries.
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According to the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Pakistani forces carried out retaliatory strikes that reportedly killed 274 Taliban fighters and injured more than 400. Several Afghan Taliban military headquarters, tanks, artillery units and check posts were said to have been destroyed during the operation.
Security officials stated that Afghan forces initiated firing at multiple border locations, prompting a large-scale military response. More than 115 tanks, artillery systems and armored vehicles were reportedly destroyed, while 73 check posts were demolished and 18 others taken over by Pakistani forces.
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Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said militants attempted drone attacks in Abbottabad, Swabi and Nowshera using small unmanned aerial vehicles. Pakistan’s anti-drone defence systems intercepted and shot down all drones, with no casualties reported. He alleged the incidents highlighted links between the Afghan Taliban regime and militant activity inside Pakistan.
Air strikes in Afghanistan
The Pakistan Air Force carried out air strikes targeting military installations in Afghanistan, including locations in Kabul, Kandahar and Paktia. Security sources claimed ammunition depots, logistics bases and multiple brigade and corps headquarters were destroyed.
Taliban officials confirmed explosions in Kabul, Paktia and Kandahar, stating a military facility in Kabul was hit around 1:50 am.
Border clashes and captured posts
Pakistani security forces reportedly captured five Afghan posts in Paktia province opposite South Waziristan, raising the Pakistani flag at the locations. Fighting was also reported across Bajaur, Tirah, Chitral, Mohmand and Kurram sectors, where additional Taliban positions were destroyed.
Civilian impact
Security sources said mortar shells landed in Bajaur’s Laghrai area, injuring five civilians, including three women. The injured were shifted to hospital for treatment, while a mosque sustained damage during the shelling.
Official statements
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan was fully prepared to defend its sovereignty and would respond firmly to aggression. President Asif Ali Zardari emphasized unity within the armed forces to safeguard territorial integrity.
Government spokesperson Musharraf Zaidi stated operations were ongoing early Friday and rejected reports that any Pakistani post had been captured.
International reaction
Russia and Iran expressed concern over the escalation, urging both sides to implement an immediate ceasefire and resolve differences through dialogue. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi offered to facilitate negotiations between the two countries.
Security officials said Pakistan’s armed forces remain on high alert and prepared to respond to any further aggression along the border.
