Afghanistan fires at Pakistani jets over Kabul as conflict intensifies

It was not immediately clear what had been targeted or whether there were casualties. Read more at straitstimes.com.

KABUL – Afghanistan said it was firing at Pakistani jets in Kabul after blasts and gunfire rocked the capital on March 1, compounding instability in a region rattled by the US-Israeli strikes on Iran and retaliatory attacks on US targets in Gulf states.

Taliban-ruled Afghanistan has suffered Pakistani strikes against government installations over the past week following accusations, which it denies, that it harbours militants.

The heaviest fighting in years between the neighbours has raised fears of a protracted conflict along their 2,600km border, with several countries including Qatar and Saudi Arabia calling for restraint and offering to help mediate a ceasefire.

Explosions echoed across parts of Kabul before sunrise, followed by bursts of gunfire, a Reuters witness said. It was not clear what had been targeted or whether there were casualties.

Taliban administration spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said the sounds were the result of Afghan forces targeting Pakistani aircraft over the capital.

“Air defence attacks were carried out in Kabul against Pakistani aircraft. Kabul residents should not be concerned,” Mr Mujahid said.