Kabul Airstrike: Residents Report Earthquake-Like Explosion

Pakistan Launches Strikes in Afghanistan Following Taliban Offensive, PM Shehbaz Sharif Praises Armed Forces

Islamabad responded to a major offensive by the Afghan Taliban against Pakistani military posts near the border with airstrikes targeting Kabul, Kandahar and Paktika provinces on Friday, February 27, 2026. The escalating conflict has drawn international calls for de-escalation from the UN, China, Iran, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded his country’s armed forces, stating they are capable of “crushing” its foes, while the defense minister declared “open war” on the Afghan Taliban.

Confirmed Reports: Airstrikes and Taliban Claims

Pakistani forces conducted strikes in Kabul, as well as the provinces of Kandahar and Paktika. A resident of Dashti Barchi in Kabul’s District 6, an area near the reported target, described his house shaking violently due to an explosion, initially mistaking it for an earthquake before realizing Pakistani jets were overhead. The BBC reports that residents were left fearful and sleepless following the strikes.

Prior to the Pakistani response, the Taliban administration in Afghanistan claimed to have captured 19 Pakistani checkposts and killed 55 soldiers in large-scale airstrikes. Pakistan, however, asserts that 274 Taliban officials and militants have been killed since Thursday night, according to a military spokesperson. India Today reports on these conflicting claims.

What Each Side Wants

Pakistan’s actions appear to be a direct response to the Taliban’s offensive and a demonstration of resolve against what Islamabad alleges is support for the Pakistani Taliban (TTP). Analysts suggest Pakistan is aiming to “punish” Afghanistan’s leaders for this alleged support. The Pakistani government views the TTP as a significant security threat, responsible for numerous attacks within Pakistan.

The Taliban, for their part, has not explicitly stated their objectives beyond responding to Pakistani airstrikes conducted last Sunday, which they decried as an unauthorized incursion. Their claims of capturing Pakistani checkpoints and inflicting casualties suggest a desire to assert control over the border region and potentially pressure Pakistan to address Taliban concerns. Deutsche Welle details the Taliban’s portrayal of the fighting as a response to previous Pakistani actions.

Background: A History of Tensions

The current escalation is the latest chapter in a long-running conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Tensions have been particularly acute since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021. The 2,611-kilometer (1,622-mile) border, known as the Durand Line, remains a point of contention, as Afghanistan does not recognize it. Cross-border fire and accusations of supporting insurgent groups have been frequent occurrences. Prior to Friday’s events, both countries reported cross-border fire on Tuesday, though without reported casualties.

Confirmed vs. Unclear: Separating Fact from Claim

Confirmed: Pakistan conducted airstrikes in Kabul, Kandahar, and Paktika. The Taliban launched an offensive against Pakistani military posts. International actors are calling for de-escalation. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the Pakistani defense minister have issued strong statements.

Unclear: The exact number of casualties on both sides remains unconfirmed. The extent of the Taliban’s initial gains – specifically the claim of capturing 19 Pakistani checkposts and killing 55 soldiers – has not been independently verified. The specific targets within Kabul, Kandahar, and Paktika have not been publicly disclosed. The full scope of Pakistan’s military operation remains unclear.

Political and Strategic Implications

This escalation carries significant regional implications. The conflict risks further destabilizing an already volatile region. China, with significant economic interests in both Pakistan and Afghanistan, has urged dialogue and negotiation, while also emphasizing the need to protect Chinese personnel and projects. Iran has offered to mediate, highlighting the potential for broader regional involvement. The involvement of Saudi Arabia and Turkey, through phone calls with the Pakistani counterpart, underscores the international concern surrounding the situation.

Analysts suggest that, given Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities, a conventional war between the two countries is unlikely. However, the risk of further escalation and prolonged conflict remains high. The situation also raises concerns about the potential for increased terrorist activity in the region, as instability can create opportunities for extremist groups.

What Happens Next?

The immediate future remains uncertain. Iran’s offer to mediate could provide a pathway for dialogue, but the willingness of both sides to engage remains to be seen. China’s call for talks and the involvement of other regional powers suggest a concerted effort to prevent further escalation. However, the strong rhetoric from both sides – particularly the Pakistani defense minister’s declaration of “open war” – indicates a hardening of positions. Continued monitoring of the situation and diplomatic efforts will be crucial in the coming days and weeks.