A series of explosions across Afghanistan, including those in central Kabul, Paktika and Khost province late Thursday, have heightened tensions between Pakistan and the Taliban-led Afghan government.
Witnesses reported multiple waves of attacks overnight, including an explosion near Kabul’s Abdul Haq Square and a Taliban-led manhunt. Officials said there were no immediate reports of casualties or significant structural damage.
Taliban officials have accused Pakistan of launching coordinated airstrikes inside Afghanistan, including an alleged bombing of a civilian market in eastern Paktika, calling the attacks a “clear violation of sovereignty.” Islamabad has not confirmed any cross-border attacks, but reiterated that Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants continue to use Afghan territory as a base for attacks into Pakistan.
The operation followed a deadly ambush in Pakistan’s Orakzai district earlier this week that left 11 soldiers dead. Pakistan’s military said that about 30 TTP fighters were eliminated in a subsequent intelligence-led raid.
Local reports suggested the airstrike may have targeted TTP leader Noor Wali Mehsud, but an unconfirmed audio message later claimed he was alive.
Analysts have warned that new hostilities risk triggering a broader regional crisis, underscoring deep-seated mistrust since the Taliban seized power in 2021.