Pakistani air strikes targeted Taliban military installations in Afghanistan’s major urban centers, including Kabul, on February 28, 2026. This operation, named ‘Ghazab Lil Haq,’ was launched in retaliation to what Pakistan described as ‘unprovoked and miscalculated’ attacks on its border posts.
Taliban officials confirmed the air raids reaching as far as Kabul but minimized their losses. However, Kabul residents reported hearing secondary explosions for hours, causing widespread panic. Video footage verified by Reuters showed thick black smoke rising from Darulaman, a neighborhood housing government and military compounds.
Residents described the bombardment beginning shortly after midnight, with continuous detonations as stored munitions ignited. Tamim, a local taxi driver, recounted the fear and chaos as the fire raged until dawn. Danish, a nearby pharmacist, noted the sleepless night due to the escalating tensions.
The strikes have revived memories of past conflicts in Afghanistan, a nation grappling with poverty and hunger since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021. In response to the heavy losses, the Taliban expressed willingness to negotiate with Islamabad, as international calls for de-escalation intensified. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid emphasized the need for dialogue to resolve the conflict.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, February 28th, 2026
Follow SouthAsianDesk on X, Instagram and Facebook for insights on business and current affairs from across South Asia.
