Pakistan and Afghanistan Escalate Conflict Amid Longstanding Border and Militant Disputes

Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan escalated into what Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif described as an "open war" after Pakistan conducted airstrikes on Afghan provinces, targeting militant camps linked to the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Islamic State Khorasan. Afghanistan retaliated with attacks on Pakistani border posts, condemning the strikes as violations of sovereignty. The conflict reflects longstanding disputes over the Durand Line border, militant harboring accusations, and complex historical, ethnic, and geopolitical factors. Public opinion in Pakistan shows frustration with ongoing conflict and criticism of military policies, while analysts warn of a protracted crisis with regional implications.