US Backs Pakistan Defence Against Afghan Taliban: The United States has expressed its support for Pakistan’s right to defend itself against attacks from Afghanistan’s Taliban rulers. This announcement came on February 27, 2026, following Pakistan’s declaration of being in an ‘open war’ with its neighbor.
The Taliban, now governing Afghanistan, indicated a willingness to negotiate after facing bombings in major cities by Pakistani forces. A spokesperson from the US State Department confirmed the US stance, highlighting Pakistan’s defens\ce right against the Taliban, recognized as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist group.
Pakistan, a nuclear-armed nation, possesses military capabilities far exceeding those of Afghanistan. However, the Taliban fighters are experienced in guerrilla warfare, having battled US-led forces for decades before regaining control in 2021 after the US’s chaotic withdrawal.
Recently, violence surged as both countries carried out strikes against each other. This escalation follows Pakistan’s allegations that Afghanistan harbors Pakistani Taliban militants, a claim Afghanistan denies, accusing Pakistan of deflecting its own security shortcomings.
The US, acknowledging the escalation and loss of life, expressed sadness over the conflict. Pakistan’s Defence Minister, Khawaja Muhammad Asif, characterized the situation as ‘open war,’ while the US reiterated that the Taliban’s failure to meet counterterrorism commitments remains a critical issue.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, February 28th, 2026
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