Pakistan Signals Possible Air Strikes as Islamic Emirate Releases Pakistani Soldiers in Goodwill Move

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has warned that Islamabad could launch air operations inside Afghanistan if it considers them necessary.

In an interview with a French media outlet, Asif alleged that recent attacks within Pakistan were part of a “proxy conflict” involving Afghan authorities and India. He claimed militant groups operating from Afghan territory were responsible for cross-border violence and said Pakistan would not hesitate to take military action if required. Asif also referred to continuing friction with India, cautioning that the risk of confrontation between the two nuclear-armed neighbors persists.

His remarks come shortly after a conciliatory step by the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, announced that three Pakistani soldiers captured during border clashes in October 2025 were released to mark the holy month of Ramadan. Mujahid said the release was a gesture of goodwill and in line with the Islamic Emirate’s policy of maintaining positive relations with all countries. The decision followed a request from Saudi Arabia, and the soldiers were handed over to a Saudi delegation.

Relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan have faced repeated strains in recent years, largely over security concerns and allegations of cross-border militancy. Afghan officials have consistently maintained that Afghan soil will not be used against any other country.

In a related development, Afghanistan’s Chief of Armed Forces, Fasihuddin Fitrat, emphasized military readiness and proper equipment at the graduation ceremony of 153 personnel from the 313 Central Corps Training Center, marking the eighth such graduation. Fitrat stressed preparedness to defend the unity, strength, and honor of the Islamic system and the Afghan people. The Ministry of Defense stated that maintaining readiness is a religious and national duty.

Meanwhile, Kazakhstan hosted an extraordinary meeting of the Regional Contact Group on Afghanistan with representatives from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan. Kazakhstan’s special presidential representative for Afghanistan, Yerkin Tokumov, said Astana is shifting to an opportunity-focused approach on Afghanistan. Uzbekistan’s special representative, Esmatullah Ergashev, noted plans to advance joint projects and expand regional cooperation.