Conflict Escalation: Pakistan Declares Open War and Bombs Afghanistan

Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have reached a critical point after the Pakistani air force conducted a series of massive strikes on targets deep within Afghan territory. Islamabad, abandoning its previous strategy of limited counter-terrorism operations, has officially declared a state of "open war" against the Taliban government. This decision is a direct response to the increasing activity of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan group, which, according to Pakistan, enjoys safe haven under Kabul's protection. The nighttime attacks focused on command centers and military infrastructure, resulting in nearly 300 deaths and causing panic among civilians who fear a return to the bloodiest periods in the region's history. For decades, Pakistan supported the Taliban movement, seeing it as an ally providing strategic depth in its rivalry with India. However, after the Taliban seized power in 2021, this alliance turned into a bloody border dispute over the Durand Line. Pakistan's military advantage is overwhelming, stemming from its possession of modern air power and a nuclear arsenal. In response to the airstrikes, the Taliban attempted attacks using drones, but most of them were successfully neutralized by Pakistani air defense. The situation is complicated by China's stance, for whom regional destabilization threatens strategic economic interests. Global reactions are immediate: the international community is watching the escalation with concern, and humanitarian organizations are warning of the growing risk of a refugee crisis in the region. Islamabad has announced it will continue operations until the Taliban completely renounce support for terrorist groups. „This is an open war, and it will continue until the Taliban stop exporting terrorism to our lands.” — Pakistan's Defense Minister The threat of a full-scale armed conflict also puts Western nations in a difficult position. Many European countries, including Poland, are facing a dilemma regarding the deportation of migrants to a country that has de facto become an active war zone. Security experts indicate that the current escalation could become the "new normal" in relations between these neighbors unless effective international mediation takes place. 300 — victims of the nighttime airstrikes on Afghan territory