Pakistan Strikes in Afghanistan Kill 7, Injure 85 After Peace Talks

The already strained relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan has worsened sharply after cross-border strikes in northeastern Afghanistan killed at least seven people and injured 85 others , according to Afghan officials. The attacks reportedly hit Asadabad city in Kunar province and surrounding civilian areas, with one of the affected locations being the Sayed Jamaluddin Afghani University , which sustained significant damage.

Afghan authorities said the wounded included students, women, and children , with around 30 students and professors injured in the university strike alone. Officials described the attack as a serious violation of international norms , calling it an “unforgivable war crime.” Emergency services were overwhelmed as casualties were brought in from multiple locations.

Pakistan, however, categorically denied targeting the university or civilian infrastructure , rejecting Afghan claims as “false” and “frivolous.” Islamabad maintained that its military actions are intelligence-based and targeted at militant groups , not civilians.

The latest violence comes shortly after China-mediated peace talks in Urumqi , where both sides had agreed to reduce tensions and continue diplomatic engagement. Afghan officials had earlier described those discussions as “positive” , raising hopes of de-escalation after months of conflict.

Tensions between the two countries have been rising since late February, with both sides accusing each other of supporting or harbouring militant groups. Pakistan has repeatedly alleged that Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) operatives are using Afghan soil to launch attacks inside Pakistan, a charge strongly denied by Kabul. Afghanistan, in turn, has accused Pakistan of conducting airstrikes causing civilian casualties , further deepening mistrust.

Despite a brief lull during the Eid al-Fitr ceasefire , sporadic violence has continued along the border. The United Nations has previously warned that the conflict has displaced tens of thousands of people , worsening humanitarian conditions in affected regions.

With mediation efforts involving China and other regional players , including Turkey, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, the situation remains fragile. The latest escalation highlights the uncertain future of peace efforts , as both sides remain locked in a cycle of accusations, retaliation, and mistrust.