Daily brief
Pakistan has declared a state of 'open war' with Afghanistan, following its airstrikes inside the country targeting areas including Kabul and the provinces of Laghman and Kandahar. The Taliban government confirmed ongoing fighting in border areas, with Pakistan's defense minister stating the country is waging 'open war' against the Taliban-led government. The escalation centers on Pakistan's accusation that the Taliban harbors militants from the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which launch attacks from Afghan soil.
The United States stated it supports Pakistan's right to defend itself against the Afghan Taliban, while the Taliban government warned of decisive action if Pakistani military operations continue.
Afghanistan claims it used drones to strike military positions inside Pakistan and that Pakistani strikes resulted in civilian casualties, including 19 dead from 'deliberate targeting'.