India Criticizes Pakistani Airstrikes in Afghanistan as a ‘Blatant Act of Aggression’

In a strong response to recent developments, India has condemned the Pakistani airstrikes in Afghanistan that resulted in civilian casualties, labeling the military action as a “blatant act of aggression” against the sovereignty of the Afghan state. This condemnation, issued on Monday by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), underscores India’s longstanding concern over regional stability and the implications of cross-border military actions.

The airstrikes, which reportedly killed 36 civilians and injured over 160 in eastern Afghanistan, were executed in the provinces of Paktia, Paktika, and Kunar during the night, as confirmed by the Taliban government in Kabul. The attacks were characterized by Islamabad as a retaliation against a militant assault on a Pakistan Rangers camp in Karachi, which had led to the deaths of three security personnel.

In its statement, the MEA expressed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and reiterated India’s steadfast support for Afghanistan’s territorial integrity. It highlighted Pakistan’s pattern of what it termed “reckless behavior,” asserting that such actions were not only an infringement on Afghanistan’s sovereignty but also posed a significant risk to the broader peace and security of the region. The ministry accused Pakistan of attempting to deflect its internal issues by resorting to violence beyond its borders, a narrative that echoes longstanding criticisms of Islamabad’s military strategies.

The tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have been exacerbated since the Taliban regained control of Kabul in 2021. Islamabad has consistently voiced concerns regarding the Afghan Taliban’s inaction against militant groups believed to operate from Afghan territory, which it claims threaten Pakistan’s security. Conversely, the Taliban has condemned the strikes, arguing that they have caused unnecessary civilian suffering and property damage, further deteriorating the already strained relations.

This incident marks a significant deterioration in the diplomatic ties between the two nations and raises alarms about the potential for further conflict in the region. With both countries grappling with internal and external pressures, the call for dialogue and restraint becomes more urgent. Observers suggest that both Pakistan and Afghanistan must address their underlying issues to prevent further escalations that could destabilize the entire region.

Source: scroll.in