In brief
The Taliban in Afghanistan has condemned Pakistan for allegedly violating its territory amid claims of attacks on civilian areas, including a market. While Pakistan has not confirmed the accusations, it asserts that Afghanistan is being exploited for terrorist operations. Afghan officials have warned of serious consequences if hostilities continue, even as diplomatic efforts are suggested to resolve tensions.
The Afghan Taliban has accused Pakistan of violating Kabul's sovereign territory, describing it as an unprecedented, violent, and provocative act.
This allegation comes after two loud blasts were reported in the city late on Thursday night.
According to the Taliban Defence Ministry, Pakistan also bombed a civilian market in the border province of Patika, in Afghanistan's southeastern region, leading to the destruction of numerous shops.
Pakistan has not confirmed nor denied launching an attack inside Afghanistan.
During a press conference in Peshawar, a senior general alleged that Afghanistan has been used as a base of operation for terrorism against Pakistan. General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry stated, To safeguard Pakistani lives and properties, what measures need to be taken will be taken.
Pakistan has accused the Afghan Taliban of allowing the Pakistan Taliban, known as the TTP, to operate from their territory, which the Taliban government denies.
Rumors suggested the blasts in Kabul might have been aimed at TTP leader Noor Wali Mehsud, but a subsequent voice note from Mehsud claimed he was still alive.
The situation remains unclear; however, BBC Afghan's correspondent observed no sign of an explosion at the suspected blast locations, although a significant Taliban presence was noted.
The Taliban Defence Ministry has warned that any escalation will result in accountability directed at the Pakistani army.
Despite the accusations, the Taliban's foreign minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, in a meeting with Indian journalists, expressed a desire for maintaining amicable relations with Pakistan, urging that issues be resolved through negotiation rather than conflict.
