Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have sharply intensified, with both sides carrying out airstrikes and military operations across the border.
Taliban officials in Afghanistan have claimed that Afghan defence systems shot down a Pakistani fighter jet in the eastern city of Jalalabad and captured the pilot alive.
Afghan Claim of Jet Downing
According to reports cited by AFP, Taliban authorities said the aircraft was downed in Jalalabad’s sixth district. Local residents reportedly stated that the pilot ejected safely using a parachute before being detained by Afghan forces.
Taliban police spokesperson Tayeb Hammad was quoted as saying that the Pakistani fighter jet had been shot down and its pilot taken into custody. Wahidullah Mohammadi, a spokesperson for the military in eastern Afghanistan, reportedly confirmed the claim.
Pakistan has not immediately issued an official response confirming or denying the incident.
Cross-Border Airstrikes Intensify
The latest development follows a series of escalating military exchanges between the two neighbours.
Pakistan reportedly carried out airstrikes targeting Kabul, Kandahar — considered a stronghold of Taliban Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada — and Paktia province. Islamabad claimed that its strikes killed over 100 Taliban fighters and injured more than 200 others.
These attacks were described as retaliation for alleged militant activity and accusations that Afghan territory was being used to shelter armed groups targeting Pakistan.
In response, Afghan Taliban forces reportedly launched a border offensive against Pakistani positions, further raising tensions along the frontier.
Growing Regional Concern
The escalating conflict has sparked international attention. When asked whether the United States would mediate between the two countries, US President Donald Trump said he would consider involvement but also emphasized his strong ties with Pakistan’s leadership.
As military operations continue on both sides, the situation remains volatile, with concerns growing over the potential for broader regional instability if hostilities persist.
Originally published on 24×7-news.com.
