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Pakistan Airstrikes in Afghanistan Kill 13 Civilians

2/27/2026

32 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The United Nations reports Pakistan conducted airstrikes in Afghanistan on February 21-22, killing at least 13 civilians, including women and children.
Pakistan says it hit militant hideouts in Nangarhar and Paktika.
Afghan officials condemned the strikes as sovereignty violations.
The airstrikes follow violence in Pakistan, including suicide bombings that killed dozens.

History

Historical Context

Following the September 11 attacks in 2001, the U.S. launched Operation Enduring Freedom on October 7 to dismantle al-Qaeda and remove the Taliban from power. By 2021, over 2,400 U.S. military personnel had died in the conflict, which evolved into a prolonged struggle against a resurgent Taliban. Recent Pakistani airstrikes in Afghanistan reflect ongoing regional tensions and the complexities of countering militant threats.

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Story summary

The United Nations reports Pakistan conducted airstrikes in Afghanistan on February 21-22, killing at least 13 civilians, including women and children.
Pakistan says it hit militant hideouts in Nangarhar and Paktika.
Afghan officials condemned the strikes as sovereignty violations.
The airstrikes follow violence in Pakistan, including suicide bombings that killed dozens.

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