Taliban Blames Pakistan for Border Bombing Amid Kabul Explosions
The Taliban government has accused Pakistan of bombing a border town, claiming it violated Afghanistan’s sovereignty. This accusation follows two explosions that occurred late Thursday night in Kabul. The Afghan Defence Ministry stated on social media, "Pakistan violated Afghanistan’s airspace, bombing a civilian market in the Marghi area of Paktika near the Durand Line and also violating Kabul’s sovereign territory. This is an unprecedented, violent, and provocative act. We strongly condemn this violation of Afghan airspace, and defending our territory is our right."
The alleged bombing coincided with the visit of Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to New Delhi. In response to the situation, Muttaqi remarked, "I think it’s a wrong step by the Pakistan government. Such issues cannot be resolved by strength. Countries with disputes should resolve them internally. Peace and prosperity are good for all. Yes, a blast was heard in Kabul, but no casualties have been reported. Some attacks happened in border areas, and we condemn them. We have opened doors for dialogue and diplomacy."
Afghanistan's spokesperson, Zabihullah, confirmed the explosion in Kabul but noted that no damage was reported and investigations are ongoing.
In a related development, India and Afghanistan have identified Pakistan-sponsored cross-border terrorism as a shared threat. Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar emphasized the need for coordinated efforts to combat terrorism, stating, "We must coordinate efforts to combat terrorism in all its forms. We appreciate your sensitivity towards India’s security concerns. Your support after the Pahalgam terrorist attack was noteworthy."
Muttaqi assured India that Afghanistan will not permit any group to use its territory against Indian interests, highlighting the Daesh (ISIS) group as a significant regional threat. He added that Kabul is at the forefront of combating this threat. Additionally, India announced plans to elevate its technical mission in Kabul to embassy status and confirmed its commitment to continue development projects in Afghanistan, reaffirming its strategic and humanitarian ties with the country.