Ceasefire on Edge: Pakistan Strike on Afghan University Sparks Fresh Tensions

Kabul– A fresh escalation between Pakistan and Afghanistan has put their recently brokered ceasefire at serious risk after cross-border strikes reportedly hit civilian areas, including a university, in Afghanistan’s Kunar province.

According to Taliban officials, the strikes targeted homes and the Sayed Jamaluddin Afghani University in Asadabad, killing at least seven people and injuring 85 others. The incident marks the first major attack since China-mediated peace talks led to a temporary truce between the two neighbouring nations.

Taliban spokesperson Hamdullah Fitrat condemned the strikes, calling them “unforgivable war crimes” and alleging that civilians, including women, children, and students, were among the victims. Afghan authorities further stated that around 30 students and faculty members were injured in the university attack.

However, Pakistan has strongly denied targeting the university, with its Ministry of Information and Broadcasting dismissing the allegations as “false” and asserting that its operations are “precise and intelligence-based.”

The latest development threatens to derail the already fragile ceasefire that followed months of hostilities. Since late 2025, both countries have engaged in repeated cross-border strikes, with tensions briefly easing after a truce declared around Eid following the holy month of Ramadan.

The ceasefire had been facilitated through diplomatic efforts led by China, with support from regional players including Turkey, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Despite the temporary calm in March, the renewed violence now raises concerns over a potential return to sustained conflict.

While no final agreement emerged from earlier peace talks, both sides had indicated willingness to resume dialogue. The latest strikes, however, underline the volatility of the situation and the challenges in maintaining long-term stability in the region.