Pakistan Conducts Major Airstrikes on Militant Hideouts in Eastern Afghanistan, Claims Key Commander Killed
Kabul — Pakistan has carried out a large-scale intelligence-based air operation in eastern Afghanistan, targeting seven key militant hideouts amid rising cross-border security threats. According to official sources, several militants were killed in the strikes, including Taliban commander Akhtar Muhammad.
Security sources said fighter jets precisely targeted militant sanctuaries in the Barmal district of Paktika province, where powerful explosions were heard across the area. The strikes reportedly caused significant damage to infrastructure allegedly used by militant groups.
Afghan media outlets reported that following the operation in Paktika, additional airstrikes were conducted in the Khogyani district of Nangarhar province. Alleged militant hideouts and training centers were said to be among the targets.
Reports also indicated that an explosion at the Banosi madrassa in the Margha area resulted in the deaths of more than 10 individuals and left several others injured. The area is reportedly linked to commander Akhtar Muhammad. Meanwhile, in the Kami district of Jalalabad, Nangarhar, two additional targets were successfully struck by fighter aircraft, with aerial activity continuing in the region.
Sources further claimed that Akhtar Muhammad was killed in the strikes in Paktia province, though independent verification of casualties remains limited.
In a statement posted on social media, Pakistan’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting said the airstrikes were conducted as a retaliatory measure following recent suicide attacks in Pakistan, including incidents in Islamabad, Bajaur, and Bannu during the holy month of Ramadan.
Press Release
21 February, 2026
In the aftermath of recent suicide bombing incidents in Pakistan, including Imam Bargah at Islamabad, one each in Bajaur and Bannu followed by another incident today in Bannu during the holy month of Ramzan, Pakistan has conclusive evidence that…
— Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (@MoIB_Official) February 21, 2026
The ministry stated that the operation targeted seven camps and facilities linked to “Fitna al-Khawarij,” Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and associated groups, as well as elements affiliated with ISIS-K. According to officials, the strikes were carried out with precision and caution along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border region to minimize collateral damage.
Pakistan reiterated its demand that the Afghan interim government prevent its territory from being used by militant groups against Pakistan. It emphasized that the safety and security of Pakistani citizens remain its foremost priority.
Islamabad also urged the international community to play a constructive role by encouraging the Taliban-led administration to fulfill its obligations under the Doha Agreement and ensure that Afghan soil is not used for terrorist activities against any country.
So far, there has been no official response from the Afghan interim government regarding the reported airstrikes within its territory.
