The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Afghanistan summoned the Chargé d’Affaires of the Pakistani Embassy in Kabul on Wednesday to deliver a formal protest over recent airstrikes by Pakistani forces near the Durand Line in Paktika province.

In a strongly worded statement, the ministry condemned the attacks in the Barmal district, which left 46 civilians dead and six injured, many of whom were women and children. The Afghan authorities labeled the strikes a grave violation of Afghanistan’s sovereignty and a breach of international norms.

The ministry expressed dismay that the airstrikes occurred while a representative of Pakistan’s civilian government was engaged in discussions with Afghan officials in Kabul. “This act reflects deliberate attempts by certain factions within Pakistan to undermine trust between the two nations,” the statement read.

The Islamic Emirate reaffirmed its commitment to defending Afghanistan’s sovereignty and independence, warning that violations of its airspace are unacceptable. The statement emphasized Afghanistan’s readiness to protect its territorial integrity, describing the nation’s sovereignty as a “red line” that must not be crossed.

The Ministry of National Defense also condemned the airstrikes, describing them as a “barbaric act” and vowed that the attacks would not go unanswered.

The incident underscores ongoing tensions along the Durand Line, a long-standing point of contention between the two neighboring countries. Afghan officials have called on Pakistan to exercise restraint, warning of severe consequences for such “irresponsible actions.”

The deadly airstrikes in Paktika province come amidst strained relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan. The attacks have drawn criticism for targeting civilian areas, with local reports describing significant destruction of homes and infrastructure in the region.

The Afghan government has reiterated its demand for Pakistan to respect its sovereignty and avoid actions that exacerbate tensions between the two nations. (ILKHA)