Afghanistan has charged Pakistan of violating a peace agreement after deadly airstrikes in eastern Afghan Province Khost. The airstrikes, which took place on October 17, left several casualties, including at least 10 Afghan civilians confirmed dead. Afghan officials state that Pakistan carried out the airstrikes using aircraft in areas near the border. The airstrikes increase already tense relations between both countries on several fronts including cross-border militancyPakistan, on the other hand, has denied carrying out the attacks.
The airstrike’s incident is considered detrimental to the fragile ceasefire established earlier this year between the two countries meant to eliminate violence in the border region. Both countries have charged each other with harboring militants for years, and the volatile and conflict-prone region remains contentious.The attack reignited fears of instability in the greater region and arguments for accountability regarding the airstrike. Afghanistan’s government condemned the airstrike and stated it will hold Pakistan accountable, further intensifying diplomatic relations between the two neighbors.
