Kabul/Islamabad: Afghanistan has accused Pakistan of carrying out cross-border attacks that killed at least three civilians, describing the incident as a potential “war crime” and further straining already fragile relations between the two neighbours.

According to Afghan officials, the strikes targeted civilian areas in the eastern Kunar province, resulting in deaths and multiple injuries. Authorities also claimed that key civilian infrastructure including schools, mosques, and a health facility was damaged in the attack, raising serious humanitarian concerns. 

Pakistan, however, has rejected the allegations, denying that it targeted civilian sites and questioning the claims made by Kabul. Islamabad has maintained that its military actions are aimed at militant groups operating near the border and has previously accused Afghanistan of harbouring fighters linked to the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan. 

The latest accusations come amid a broader pattern of escalating cross-border violence between the two countries. Despite recent attempts at de-escalation and diplomatic engagement, including talks mediated by regional actors, clashes have continued intermittently along the border. 

Afghan authorities have strongly condemned the attack, calling it a violation of sovereignty and international law. The use of the term “war crime” signals a sharp escalation in rhetoric, reflecting growing frustration in Kabul over repeated incidents involving civilian casualties.

The situation has also worsened the humanitarian outlook in border regions, where ongoing conflict has disrupted daily life and displaced civilians. Refugee movements and security fears continue to rise as tensions remain unresolved. 

The incident underscores the deep mistrust between Afghanistan and Pakistan, with both sides locked in a cycle of accusations and retaliation. With ceasefire efforts struggling to hold, the risk of further escalation remains high, raising concerns about stability across the wider region. 

Disclaimer : This image is taken from Reuters.