In a strongly worded statement on Monday, India condemned the recent Pakistani airstrikes in Afghanistan that resulted in civilian casualties, labeling the attacks as a “blatant act of aggression” against Afghan sovereignty. The Ministry of External Affairs expressed deep concern over the escalation of violence and emphasized that such military actions pose a significant threat to regional peace and stability.

The airstrikes, which occurred late Sunday night, reportedly killed 36 civilians and injured another 163 in the eastern provinces of Paktia, Paktika, and Kunar, according to the Taliban government in Kabul. The Indian government extended its condolences to the bereaved families and reiterated its unwavering support for Afghanistan’s territorial integrity. This incident highlights a troubling pattern of aggressive behavior from Pakistan, as articulated by India’s Ministry of External Affairs in a detailed statement.

Pakistan has defended its actions, claiming that the airstrikes were aimed at militants responsible for attacking a Pakistan Rangers camp in Karachi, which resulted in the deaths of three security personnel. However, the Taliban has vehemently rejected these assertions, stating that the attacks indiscriminately targeted civilians, causing extensive damage to homes and infrastructure.

This incident is the latest in a series of tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, which have escalated since the return of the Taliban to power in 2021. Islamabad has long accused the Afghan Taliban of harboring militant groups that allegedly conduct operations across the border, further straining diplomatic relations. The Indian government views these developments with serious concern, as they not only impact Afghanistan but also have broader implications for security in South Asia.

India’s condemnation of the airstrikes underscores its commitment to supporting Afghanistan’s sovereignty and its condemnation of external military interventions. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs emphasized that such actions by Pakistan reflect a desperate attempt to shift the focus from its internal challenges onto neighboring countries, fostering an atmosphere of fear and instability.

As the situation unfolds, the international community watches closely, with many advocating for a diplomatic resolution to these ongoing tensions. The urgency of addressing the root causes of violence in the region has never been more critical, and India’s proactive stance may play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Afghanistan’s sovereignty and security.