Pakistan-Afghanistan Cross-Border Military Strikes

Pakistan launched airstrikes and military operations in southern Afghanistan, targeting alleged terrorist hideouts and military facilities in Kandahar and Spin Boldak. These strikes followed Pakistan's claims of thwarting drone attacks launched from Afghanistan, which targeted locations including its military headquarters in Rawalpindi. Pakistan's President Asif Ali Zardari accused the Afghan Taliban of 'crossing a red line' by targeting civilians and promised a response. The Taliban government, through spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, denied involvement in militancy and stated that the strikes caused minor damage to a drug rehabilitation center and an empty container. The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan reported at least 75 civilian deaths and 193 injuries in Afghanistan since February 26 due to the clashes. The World Food Programme has begun delivering aid to over 20,000 displaced Afghan families, warning of widespread hunger if instability continues.