Tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan escalated sharply on March 2, 2026, as Afghanistan’s Ministry of Defence confirmed that its Air Force conducted a series of coordinated airstrikes on multiple major Pakistani military installations, including the strategically important Nur Khan Airbase in Rawalpindi. The strikes mark a significant escalation in the ongoing border conflict between the two neighbours.
According to Afghan officials, the aerial operations targeted key defence infrastructure in Rawalpindi, Quetta and other locations along the Afghanistan-Pakistan frontier. The defence ministry described the strikes as “precise and coordinated”, carried out in response to what Kabul termed repeated Pakistani incursions and raids into Afghan territory.
The Nur Khan Airbase, long regarded as one of Pakistan’s most important military assets due to its proximity to central command units and its role in the country’s air defence network, was among the primary targets. Afghan sources say this base was hit by drones or aircraft, though independent verification has been limited.
The Afghan Ministry of Defence issued brief statements saying the operations were meant to “neutralise ongoing threats” and protect Afghan sovereignty after recent clashes and military actions by Pakistani forces. Officials did not immediately provide detailed casualty figures or damage assessments.
The situation remains highly volatile, with conflicting claims and limited independent confirmation from on-the-ground media. Cross-border tensions have been building for weeks following a series of exchanges along the Durand Line, the porous and disputed border that has long been a flashpoint for militant movements, security operations, and mutual accusations of harbouring insurgents.
So far, Pakistan’s government has not issued a full official response to the Afghan claims about the airstrikes on major bases. However, previous days have seen Islamabad denounce Afghan actions and describe its own military operations against insurgent groups based in Afghan border regions.
The escalation comes amid broader concerns in the region about renewed hostilities between neighbouring countries in South Asia. Analysts warn that such large-scale air operations, if confirmed, could further strain diplomatic ties and destabilise security in a region already challenged by militant activity and political friction.
More updates are likely as governments release official statements and international observers attempt to verify claims from both sides.
