February 27, 2026
Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan significantly escalated on 26 February following cross-border firing. Pakistan stated that it has launched strikes on multiple cities in Afghanistan, including Kabul and Kandahar, in retaliation for the cross-border firing. On the other hand, Afghanistan has claimed that the cross-border attacks were in response to the airstrikes launched by Pakistan over the weekend. Authorities in both countries have begun evacuating residents near the border areas. The United Nations and countries like Russia and China have called for de-escalation of tensions, with Iran offering to mediate.