Kabul / Islamabad | 1 March 2026

Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan intensified dramatically on Sunday as loud explosions and gunfire were reported across Kabul, marking the fourth consecutive day of escalating military confrontation between the two neighbours.

Afghanistan’s Taliban-led administration stated that its air defence systems were activated after Pakistani aircraft allegedly entered Afghan airspace. Officials in Kabul claimed they fired at jets over the capital and thwarted an attempted strike near Bagram Air Base, a strategic military facility north of the city.

Pakistan, however, maintained that its operations were aimed at militant infrastructure operating from Afghan territory. Islamabad has accused Afghan authorities of failing to curb cross-border militant activities, a charge that Kabul has repeatedly denied.

Claims and Counterclaims

Pakistan’s defence officials previously described the situation as an “open war” scenario, asserting that dozens of militant positions had been targeted in multiple locations. Afghan officials rejected the claims and instead accused Pakistan of violating sovereignty and causing civilian harm.

Independent verification of casualty figures remains difficult, with both sides presenting sharply contrasting numbers. The information blackout and limited access to conflict zones have made confirmation challenging for international observers.

Regional Concerns Grow

The rapid escalation has alarmed regional powers. Diplomatic sources indicate that several countries have privately urged both sides to exercise restraint and avoid a prolonged military confrontation. Analysts warn that continued airstrikes and retaliatory fire could destabilize the already fragile security environment across South and Central Asia.

A Dangerous Turning Point

Sunday’s explosions in Kabul represent one of the most serious direct military exchanges between the two nations in recent years. While both governments publicly defend their actions as security necessities, the growing scale of operations raises concerns about broader regional fallout.

As of late Sunday evening, sporadic gunfire was still being reported in parts of Kabul, though officials suggested that the immediate wave of aerial activity had subsided. Whether this marks a pause or merely a temporary lull remains uncertain.