ISLAMABAD: The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has issued a stern warning that it may close Pakistan’s embassy in Kabul if Islamabad persists with what Kabul describes as aggression along the border and inside Afghan territory.
Hamdullah Fitrat, deputy spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, made the statement during a press briefing amid escalating military confrontations between the two neighbours. He emphasized that continued hostile actions could force decisive diplomatic measures, including suspending embassy operations, to protect Afghanistan’s sovereignty.
The threat comes against the backdrop of intense cross-border clashes that began in late February 2026. Pakistan launched airstrikes targeting alleged militant hideouts in Afghan provinces such as Nangarhar, Paktika, and Khost, claiming these operations under ‘Ghazab Lil Haq’ aimed at Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) sanctuaries.
Pakistani officials reported inflicting heavy casualties on Taliban forces, with claims of over 300 militants killed and numerous posts destroyed since the operation’s start. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif declared an “open war” following Afghan retaliatory attacks, asserting that patience had run out due to persistent terrorism exported from Afghan soil.
Afghan authorities countered these narratives, accusing Pakistan of violating sovereignty through air incursions and strikes that hit civilian areas. Fitrat reported dozens of civilian deaths, including women and children, in provinces like Khost and Paktika from Pakistani drone and mortar attacks.
Explosions rocked Kabul as Afghan forces deployed anti-aircraft systems against what they described as Pakistani aircraft over the capital. Taliban officials claimed to have thwarted attempts on Bagram air base and reported capturing Pakistani military posts along the Durand Line.
The conflict has roots in long-standing accusations. Pakistan insists the Taliban government harbours TTP fighters responsible for a surge in attacks inside Pakistan, including high-profile incidents in Islamabad and border regions. The TTP, distinct yet ideologically linked to the Afghan Taliban, has intensified operations since 2022.
Kabul denies providing safe havens and views Pakistan’s military actions as unprovoked aggression. Diplomatic channels have strained further with border closures disrupting trade and movement, exacerbating economic pressures on both sides.
International concern has mounted over the fighting. The United Nations and several countries urged de-escalation and dialogue, while the United States expressed support for Pakistan’s right to self-defence against cross-border threats.
Pakistan has deported large numbers of Afghan nationals amid the tensions, heightening humanitarian issues. Reports indicate increased raids on Afghan refugees in Pakistani cities, with fears among activists and journalists who fled Taliban rule.
The embassy warning highlights a potential full diplomatic rupture. Pakistan’s mission in Kabul remains operational, but sources indicate no formal closure orders have been issued yet. Past incidents, including attacks on diplomatic facilities, have already tested relations.
Analysts note that neither side can afford prolonged open conflict. Pakistan faces internal security challenges from militancy, while Afghanistan grapples with economic isolation and governance issues under Taliban rule.
The Durand Line dispute continues to fuel mistrust, with Afghanistan never fully recognizing the border. Ethnic Pashtun ties across the frontier complicate matters, as communities on both sides share cultural and familial bonds.
Casualty figures vary widely between the parties. Pakistani claims focus on militant losses, while Afghan statements emphasize civilian harm and their own military gains.
Recent exchanges include ground operations and air responses stretching into multiple days. Fighting entered its fourth day with reports of blasts in Kabul and continued border skirmishes.
Diplomatic efforts have seen limited engagement. Afghanistan’s foreign minister contacted regional counterparts to seek de-escalation, while Pakistan maintains its actions are defensive.
The situation risks drawing in regional players, given historical influences and alliances. Concerns persist about potential wider instability in South Asia.
Observers warn that without meaningful dialogue on militant safe havens and border management, tensions could recur. The embassy threat underscores how quickly security disputes spill into diplomatic spheres.
Both governments face domestic pressures to appear strong. For Pakistan, curbing TTP violence is a priority amid rising public anger over attacks. For the Taliban, defending sovereignty bolsters legitimacy claims.
The coming days will test whether military posturing gives way to talks or leads to further isolation measures, including potential embassy closures.