The fragile ceasefire between Islamabad and Kabul has come under strain after the Taliban-led government alleged that Pakistani mortar and rocket fire struck civilian areas in Kunar province, including an educational institution, killing at least seven people and wounding more than 80.
According to Taliban officials, the strikes targeted homes as well as the Syed Jamaluddin Afghani University in Kunar province’s Asadabad. The Taliban’s deputy spokesperson, Hamdullah Fitrat, said the injured included students, women, and children.
The incident marks a sharp break from the relative calm that followed recent talks mediated by China in Urumqi. That process had encouraged both sides to dial down rhetoric.
Pakistan’s information ministry denied any involvement in the attacks. It rejected reports of attacks on civilian areas and accused Afghan media of spreading misinformation to deflect attention from militant activity.
The allegation and Islamabad's denial have placed fresh pressure on a fragile China-mediated thaw between the neighbors. Islamabad has accused Kabul of giving safe haven to militants who carry out attacks inside Pakistan. The Taliban government has rejected the allegation, saying the violence within Pakistan is its own internal issue.
