By - News Beat
The Afghan government has claimed that Taliban forces have targeted various locations in Pakistan, allegedly in response to Pakistan's airstrikes on Afghan soil. The incident is further straining the already strained relations between the two countries.
"Our forces have retaliated defending the sovereignty and security of our territory. Any aggression by Pakistan will not be tolerated," an Afghan Defense Ministry spokesman said in a statement.
Zabihullah Mujahid, a spokesman for the Afghan Taliban, alleged that the Pakistani air force had targeted Afghan border areas in recent days, reportedly killing and injuring several civilians. The Taliban made it clear that a strong response will be given to these attacks in order to prevent any such action in the future.
Pakistani officials have yet to issue an official statement on Kabul's claims, but defense analysts say the airstrikes could be aimed at targeting militant groups that have been attacking Pakistan from Afghanistan. .
Pakistan has many times accused Afghanistan of providing shelter to terrorists of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), who are involved in terrorist activities in Pakistan.
Border skirmishes between Pakistan and Afghanistan have escalated in recent months, further straining relations between the two countries. The citizens living in the border areas of both sides are the most affected by these clashes.
Locals living near Chaman and Khost said heavy shelling and gunfire were heard throughout the night, forcing many families to flee their homes.
International analysts say that this kind of rising tension is a threat to peace in the region. The United Nations and other international organizations have appealed to both countries to find a solution to their problems through dialogue.
"The current situation requires urgent attention and constructive dialogue. The people of both countries are the biggest victims of this conflict, and their problems cannot be ignored," said a UN representative.
The growing tension between Pakistan and Afghanistan has become a serious threat not only to the two countries but also to the entire region. The prospects of peace are further blurred by the tough stance taken by both sides.
Observers say that if diplomacy is not given a chance, the conflict could be protracted and destructive. The eyes of the people are now on the two governments to see what steps they take to resolve the issues through dialogue.