Kabul, October 1: At least nine civilians were killed in Pakistani air strikes in Afghanistan’s Kunar and Helmand provinces, Afghan officials said.
The strikes reportedly hit several areas in the two provinces, with local authorities saying civilians were among those killed. The exact circumstances of the attacks and the identities of the victims were still being verified.
Officials in Afghanistan condemned the strikes and said the attacks had resulted in civilian deaths. Further details about possible injuries and damage to property were not immediately available.
The latest incident comes amid continued tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan over cross-border militancy. Islamabad has repeatedly raised concerns about armed groups operating from Afghan territory and carrying out attacks inside Pakistan.
Afghan authorities have rejected accusations that Afghanistan is being used to target Pakistan and have objected to Pakistani military action on Afghan soil.
Relations between the two neighbours have deteriorated in recent years, with border clashes, militant attacks and disputes over security concerns adding to tensions.
The reported civilian deaths are expected to further increase pressure on both sides to address their security differences and prevent further escalation along the border.
Authorities in Afghanistan were continuing to assess the damage and casualty figures following the strikes.
