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Pakistan Bombs Afghan Cities After 'Open War' Declaration as U.S. Backs Self-Defence

Taliban signal willingness to negotiate following cross-border assaults.

Overview

  • Pakistani air and ground strikes hit Kabul, Kandahar and multiple eastern provinces, with officials saying 37 locations have been targeted since Friday.
  • Islamabad says operations will continue and claims hundreds of Afghan Taliban fighters killed, with the information minister later citing at least 331, figures that remain unverified.
  • Afghan authorities report drone and ground attacks on Pakistani positions, claiming 55 Pakistani soldiers killed and seized posts, while Pakistan confirms 12 troop deaths.
  • The Taliban government states it is ready for dialogue as Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Iran, China and the United Nations urge de-escalation and offer mediation.
  • The United States says Pakistan has a right to defend itself; Afghan officials report civilian deaths from the strikes and aid agencies warn of growing humanitarian needs.