Afghanistan’s Taliban open to talks with Pakistan as ‘open war’ continues

Afghanistan's Taliban rulers announced on Friday they are willing to negotiate with Pakistan following a significant military escalation, as Pakistan conducted airstrikes directly targeting the Afghan government for the first time. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed the attacks hit the capital Kabul, the Taliban leadership base in Kandahar, and other towns, resulting in civilian casualties and describing the situation as an 'open war' between the former allies. The strikes, which witnesses reported involved jets and caused secondary explosions from ignited ammunition depots, represent a dramatic shift in Pakistan's strategy, moving from cross-border skirmishes to overt military action against Taliban-held territory in response to alleged harboring of anti-Pakistan militants.

Security sources in Pakistan stated the air-to-ground missile attacks targeted Taliban military offices and posts, specifically retaliating for Afghan attacks that occurred on Thursday. The bombardment caused thick plumes of smoke over Kabul and prompted widespread panic, with residents like taxi driver Tamim describing scenes of chaos as people fled their homes. This development marks a dangerous new chapter in regional instability, as Pakistan abandons diplomatic channels for direct military confrontation with the de facto Afghan government, raising immediate concerns about further escalation and humanitarian impact in the conflict zone.