Pakistani airstrikes in Afghanistan trigger fresh cross-border dispute over casualties

The short version

• Pakistan launched airstrikes inside Afghanistan, leading to conflicting casualty reports from both governments.[Deutsche Welle · ABC News]
• Afghan officials reported around 10 civilian deaths, primarily women and children, whereas Pakistan stated the strikes killed 22 militants.[Deutsche Welle · ABC News]
• The military action follows a September 18 attack on a Pakistani police compound in Kohat that left 31 people dead.[Deutsche Welle]
• The strikes escalate broader cross-border tensions over sanctuary for the Pakistani Taliban (TTP) and security along the Durand Line.[Deutsche Welle]

Key facts

• Pakistan conducted overnight attacks on targets inside Afghanistan following a period of heightened cross-border violence.[Deutsche Welle · ABC News]
• A September 18 attack on a police compound in Kohat resulted in 31 deaths and over 100 injuries, with a TTP splinter group claiming responsibility.[Deutsche Welle]
• Pakistan accuses the Afghan Taliban of offering safe haven to the TTP, an allegation Kabul denies.[Deutsche Welle · ABC News]
• At the end of September, Afghan authorities reported 28 killed and 32 captured fighters entering from Pakistan, accusing Islamabad of supporting armed opposition.[Deutsche Welle]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.

• Pakistan vs. Afghanistan: From allies and neighbors to warDeutsche Welle
• Pakistani airstrikes in Afghanistan kill 10 civilians, Kabul says; Pakistan says only militants hitABC News - International · Wire: associated-press