Pakistan conducted airstrikes in Afghanistan on Friday, retaliating against a major offensive by the Afghan Taliban on Pakistani military posts near the border.

The Afghan Taliban government stated it launched attacks on Pakistani bases in border provinces on Thursday night. Pakistan responded with strikes targeting Kabul, Kandahar, and Paktika provinces.

The Taliban claimed drone strikes on military targets within Pakistan, including a camp in Islamabad. Pakistan reported thwarting drone attacks in Abbottabad, Swabi, and Nowshera.

Both sides accuse each other of initiating hostilities and claim to have inflicted heavy casualties. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif asserted his forces could "crush" foes, while a Taliban military spokesperson said they would "retaliate if attacked but won't start clashes."

The UN called for immediate de-escalation, Iran offered mediation, and Saudi Arabia and China urged restraint. This marks the most serious flare-up since a fragile October ceasefire brokered by Turkey and Qatar.

Tensions stem from Pakistan's accusations that the Taliban harbors anti-Pakistan militants, which Kabul denies.

Source: www.bbc.com