Pakistan launched new airstrikes into Afghan territory on Friday evening, shattering a brief two-day ceasefire. These attacks, which targeted residential areas in Paktika province, erupted just 48 hours after both nations had agreed to de-escalate escalating border violence. Media reports indicate Pakistani military aircraft bombed neighborhoods in the Argun and Barmal districts. Taliban officials confirmed the strikes, denouncing Pakistan’s breach of the truce. The airstrikes occurred mere hours before the ceasefire was set to expire, extinguishing nascent hopes for a lasting de-escalation or diplomatic resolution to the persistent border disputes. This fragile 48-hour truce began Wednesday evening, following nearly a week of intense cross-border fighting that resulted in numerous casualties on both sides, including civilians. Earlier on Friday, optimism had grown for a potential ceasefire extension, but these hopes were dashed as Pakistani aircraft re-entered Afghan airspace. The recent escalation stems from earlier Pakistani airstrikes on Kabul on October 9, 2025, targeting a TTP leader after militant attacks on Pakistani soldiers. This led to retaliatory actions by Afghan Taliban forces, igniting deadly confrontations along the border. Underlying these clashes are disputes over the Durand Line and militant activity that crosses it, contributing to ongoing instability.
