Tensions have soared in South Asia following Pakistan’s recent airstrikes near Kabul, Afghanistan, a move orchestrated by Army Chief General Asim Munir. Pakistan’s official statement identified the target as Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) commander Noor Wali Mehsud, implicated in a deadly assault on Pakistani troops in Orakzai. Nevertheless, the TTP promptly countered these claims with an audio message attributed to Mehsud, asserting he is alive and denying any reports of his death, thereby undermining Islamabad’s narrative.
Analysts are increasingly questioning the efficacy and strategic wisdom of Pakistan’s counter-terrorism initiatives, with these airstrikes emerging as a significant operational miscalculation. The interim Afghan government reacted with strong condemnation, characterizing the strikes as a breach of their national sovereignty and promising severe repercussions. Kabul stressed that Pakistan would be held accountable for any civilian harm caused by the military action.
This developing situation unfolds while Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, is on an official visit to India, holding crucial meetings with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. India has emphasized its dedication to Afghanistan’s territorial integrity and safety, further announcing the imminent reopening of its full diplomatic mission in Kabul, a move indicating enhanced bilateral ties.
Adding to the regional instability, Pakistan is grappling with internal unrest. Protests by the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), a hardline religious group, have led to internet shutdowns in the capital, Islamabad, and the adjacent city of Rawalpindi. The TLP’s march towards the US Embassy, ostensibly over the Gaza crisis, has resulted in confrontations with law enforcement agencies.