Escalating Tensions: TTP Attack and Pakistani Airstrikes Intensify Border Conflict

Pakistan unleashed a series of airstrikes on terrorist hideouts in Afghanistan, casting uncertainty over a delicate ceasefire and upcoming peace talks in Doha. The strikes, targeting the Hafiz Gul Bahadur group of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), came hours after a deadly attack on a military post in North Waziristan and a mutual extension of a 48-hour truce between Islamabad and Kabul.

The Dawn reported that the airstrikes hit the Angoor Adda region and TTP strongholds in Paktika province’s Urgun and Barmal districts. Security sources claimed the precision strikes eliminated dozens of militants, following a foiled assault on Khaddi Fort in Mir Ali, where all four attackers were killed without Pakistani losses. Notably, the ceasefire agreement did not restrict actions against terror groups, allowing Pakistan to target TTP hideouts.

The escalation threatens to derail planned mediation talks in Doha, hosted by Qatar, with Saudi Arabia’s support. A Taliban delegation, reportedly including Defence Minister Mullah Yaqub Mujahid and intelligence chief Mullah Wasiq, was set to attend. Pakistan’s National Security Adviser and ISI chief, Lt Gen Asim Malik, may also join after discussions with Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.

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Tensions flared further after Afghan authorities handed over the bodies of seven Pakistanis, including two security personnel, killed in Balochistan’s Chaman sector. Social media videos showing Afghan soldiers desecrating the bodies sparked outrage in Pakistan. The Foreign Office condemned the act as “savagery” and “beyond humanity,” vowing it would not be easily forgotten.

As both nations navigate this fragile truce, the airstrikes signal Pakistan’s resolve to combat terrorism, even at the risk of escalating cross-border conflict.

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