India Blasts Pakistan's Deadly Afghan Airstrikes, Warns of Regional Instability
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India has sharply condemned recent Pakistani airstrikes in Afghanistan Kunar and Paktika province, calling the attacks against a sovereign neighbor a threat to regional peace and security. The strikes, which Afghanistan Taliban government and the UN confirmed led to civilian deaths, represent a fresh escalation in the volatile border region. New Delhi's Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, expressed deep condolences for the lives lost and reiterated India steadfast support for Afghanistan independence and territorial integrity. The latest aerial bombardment on September 21, 2026, saw Pakistan claim it targeted militant hideouts and killed 28 militants, including suicide bombers, in retaliation for deadly attacks on its security forces in Kohat and Hangu. However, Afghan authorities reported at least three civilians killed and four injured in Kunar Province, a toll backed by the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), which noted over 1,100 civilian casualties from cross-border violence this year alone. This escalating confrontation is rooted in Pakistan long-standing accusation that the Taliban government shelters Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and allied groups, who then launch attacks into Pakistan, a charge Kabul consistently denies, viewing Pakistan security woes as internal. The Taliban has already summoned Pakistan chargé d'affaires and vowed an 'appropriate response,' signaling potential for further military retaliation and deepening the crisis along the disputed Durand Line. With both sides facing internal security challenges and blaming each other, the international community, including regional powers like China, will be watching closely for any mediation efforts. India strong diplomatic posture underscores its commitment to regional stability and its evolving, albeit cautious, engagement with Afghanistan, emphasizing the need to uphold international law and prevent further civilian suffering.