Written by: Abdan Safi
Last night, Pakistani fighter jets conducted airstrikes on the residences of Waziristani refugees in the Barmal district of Afghanistan’s Paktika province. Regrettably, this offensive resulted in the tragic loss of lives of numerous innocent women and children. Such aggressive measures not only contravene established international norms but also undermine the fundamental principles of mutual relations, posing a serious threat to Afghanistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Pakistani authorities assert that the airstrikes targeted commanders of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). However, the reality contradicts these claims, as they are unsubstantiated and mere hearsay propagated by Pakistani entities. The actual casualties were Waziristani refugees who had fled their residences due to military operations by the Pakistani army and had been residing as displaced individuals in Afghanistan for numerous years.
These refugees are destitute individuals grappling with fulfilling even their most basic necessities. Levelling accusations against them, labeling them as TTP commanders, and subjecting their residences to bombardment are unjustifiable and devoid of compassion.
Pakistan has a track record of similar transgressions. Previously, it has asserted targeting TTP commanders, allegations that were subsequently disproven. Such unfounded assertions cast doubts on Pakistan’s credibility, particularly as the purportedly “neutralized commanders” have frequently reappeared in Waziristan openly post-event.
Such baseless allegations not only tarnish Pakistan’s reputation but also exacerbate the suffering of those who lost their loved ones and possessions in these attacks. These strikes contradict ground realities and have further complicated diplomatic and political issues rather than resolving them.
If Afghanistan chooses to retaliate against these attacks, which falls within its legitimate right to safeguard its sovereignty, the accountability for the outcomes would lie solely with Pakistan. Afghanistan is an independent nation that has safeguarded its sovereignty and integrity even against global powers. Hence, it is inconceivable that it would remain passive in the face of such hostility from Pakistan.
Pakistan’s actions not only damage bilateral relations but also pose a risk of plunging the region into a fresh crisis and conflict. The Afghan government will respond based on its national dignity and international laws. If this crisis intensifies, it could cause irreparable damage to the peace and stability of the region, and Pakistan will endure a substantial military, political, and economic repercussion for its actions.
