Kabul experienced explosions and gunfire on Thursday, raising regional security concerns. Reports indicate the incident may have been a targeted aerial strike aimed at Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) chief Noor Wali Mehsud, who reportedly operates from eastern Kabul.
Intelligence sources as reported by multiple news agencies suggested the attack targeted a safehouse used by TTP and al-Qaeda operatives.
While Noor Wali Mehsud is reported to be safe and in Pakistan, sources indicate his son was killed in the strike, as reported by international news agencies.
The timing of the explosions coincided with a visit by Afghan Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to India, prompting speculation about a possible covert cross-border operation involving Pakistan.
Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif had recently accused Afghanistan of harbouring militants, suggesting the possibility of retaliatory actions.
Observers note that this marks a heightened willingness by Pakistan to target militant networks inside Kabul, a sensitive move given the Taliban’s limited air defence capabilities and the absence of an operational Afghan Air Force.
The Taliban administration confirmed at least one blast, reporting no casualties, and launched an investigation.
