Pakistan expressed anger after Afghanistan's Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, during his visit to India, referred to Jammu and Kashmir as an integral part of India. In response, Pakistan launched an air strike on Kabul, to which the Afghan army immediately retaliated.
Afghan-PAK Tension: The recent visit of Afghanistan's Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, to India was not well-received by Pakistan. During his visit, he met with Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar and, following bilateral talks, issued a joint statement. This statement referred to Jammu and Kashmir as an integral part of India, which ignited widespread anger in Pakistan.
Pakistan's Response
In retaliation, Pakistan carried out an air strike on Kabul. However, the Afghan army immediately responded, conveying a clear message about the protection of its national interests and borders. Afghan Foreign Minister Muttaqi unequivocally stated that Afghanistan would defend its frontiers and national security. He further added that after an overnight operation, the army had successfully achieved all its objectives.
Afghanistan's Situation
Muttaqi stated that the current situation is under control, and Afghanistan aims to work towards peace and fostering good relations. He made it explicit that if Pakistan does not refrain from its provocative actions, Afghanistan possesses other available options. Through this, he issued a b warning to Pakistan.
Why Pakistan Was Incensed
The primary reason for Pakistan's anger was Afghanistan's position on Jammu and Kashmir. During his India visit, Muttaqi clarified that Afghanistan seeks to maintain permanent and robust relations with India. He stated that Afghanistan shares a border with Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, making the situation in this region a crucial component of Afghan foreign policy.
Pakistan immediately summoned the Afghan ambassador and conveyed its b displeasure. Pakistan's President, Asif Ali Zardari, stated that the Taliban is not genuinely concerned with the interests of the Kashmiri people, describing it as an injustice to history and the Ummah.
Afghan Foreign Minister Muttaqi also disclosed that Qatar and Saudi Arabia had urged both nations to cease the conflict and maintain peace. Subsequently, the Afghan army halted its attacks. Muttaqi made it clear that Afghanistan is now an independent nation and is actively working towards peace.
