‘Cousins at war’: Pakistan-Afghan ties strained after cross-border attacks
Al JazeeraMar 19
Pakistan Accused in Deadly Afghanistan Air Strikes
The Facts
In reaction to a deadly militant attack on Saturday that killed seven Pakistani soldiers, Pakistan launched "intelligence-based anti-terrorist operations" in the Khost and Paktika region along the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan.
On X, formerly Twitter, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid denied responsibility for Saturday's attack on Pakistani forces and blamed Pakistan for the attack that killed eight women and children. He warned Pakistan not to blame the Taliban for Islamabad's internal issues problems.
The Spin
Narrative A
Terrorist organizations like the TTP pose a combined threat to regional peace and security, according to Pakistan. They frequently launch terror attacks on Pakistani security forces and civilians from Afghan territory. Islamabad does not want to escalate the conflict. Instead, it seeks a collaborative solution to a common problem. Above all, terrorist organizations should not be allowed to sabotage bilateral relations.
Narrative B
Kabul condemns the death of innocent women and children within Afghanistan's borders. The Pakistani attack constitutes a clear violation of Afghan sovereignty. Pakistan is said to have attacked a militant insurgency, yet there were no militants present, simply harmless refugees from Waziristan. If Pakistan continues to carry out illegal airstrikes within Afghanistan, Afghan security forces will strike back.
Nerd narrative
There is an 80% chance Pakistan will recognize the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan before 2030, according to the Metaculus prediction community.