In a significant escalation of hostilities, Pakistan has declared an 'open war' against the Taliban regime in Afghanistan, following a series of violent confrontations along the border. The Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) reported a staggering 30% increase in combat-related deaths in February 2026, with 470 fatalities, including 96 civilians and 80 security personnel. The report highlighted that the first two months of 2026 have already seen nearly half of the total suicide attacks recorded in 2025, with eight incidents leading to 34 deaths in the Islamabad Capital Territory and Punjab. Defense Minister Khawaja Asif emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, "We are in an open war with Afghan forces," as tensions have escalated following cross-border airstrikes that reportedly killed 297 Taliban personnel, according to the Federal Minister for Information, Attaullah Tarar.
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Pakistan Declares Open War On Taliban Amid Border Violence
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Pakistan has declared an 'open war' on the Taliban amid escalating violence, with a 30% rise in combat deaths and significant military operations resulting in heavy casualties on both sides.
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