The Taliban Government has urged Afghan Imams to condemn Pakistan during sermons. The Ministry of Guidance, Hajj and Endowments has told Imams to issue a strong condemnation of Pakistan’s recent aggression against Afghanistan. The Ministry has also urged the clerics to highlight the Afghan Taliban’s “firm and responsible response.”
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The Afghan Taliban wants the Imams to reassure the public that they have stood firmly against Pakistan. They have also told the Imams to convey to the public that the Taliban will continue to respond bravely to future transgressions. Furthermore, they requested their citizens to “stand united with their government in all areas and offer firm support to the Islamic Emirate.”
Pakistan airstrikes kill dozens of Afghan women and children
Recent Pakistani airstrikes in Kandahar’s Spin Boldak district killed at least 40 Afghans, most being women and children. The airstrikes injured as many as 170 others. Pakistan deliberately targeted residential areas during its airstrikes.
One victim said, “Everyone here has been impacted by Pakistan’s strikes. Homes have been destroyed and many have lost family members.” Another remarked, “The attack happened at night while people were sleeping. Many were killed, and some had to bury their loved ones with their own hands.”
Support pours in for Taliban after Pakistani War Crimes
Leader of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM), Manzoor Pashteen, has accused Pakistan of war crimes. He said, “The Pakistan army, the biggest perpetrator of war crimes, always unleashes its rage and fear of defeat upon ordinary people with empty hands on the battlefield.”
Former Afghan President Hamid Karzai also called the attacks a violation of international law. Former Afghan Diplomat Aziz Maharaj said that Pakistan has violated all norms “by launching attacks that target civilians. This benefits no one.”
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India has also lents its support to Afghanistan following the clashes. The Indian Government has said that it supports Afghan territorial integrity and sovereignty. Meanwhile, Pakistan has accused the Taliban of serving Indian interests.
