India Slams Pakistan’s Airstrikes in Afghanistan, Calls Action a Clear Violation of International Law

Delhi: India has issued a sharp rebuke to Pakistan for carrying out airstrikes inside Afghan territory, describing the assault as a blatant breach of international law and a move that endangers civilians already living through severe instability. The condemnation came during a UN briefing, where India’s Permanent Representative Parvathaneni Harish urged all nations to respect global legal frameworks and avoid worsening the humanitarian situation in the region.

Addressing the UN, Harish stressed that India stood firmly against the use of force that undermines sovereignty. “We join the international community in insisting on full adherence to the UN Charter and international law, especially regarding the protection of innocent civilians,” he said, noting that Afghanistan’s population continues to suffer from conflict, economic collapse and restricted access to essential goods.

The diplomatic tensions escalated after Taliban officials accused Pakistan of launching airstrikes in the Spin Boldak area of Kandahar. Pakistan has rejected the accusations, asserting that Afghan forces initiated “unprovoked firing” near the Chaman border, and that Pakistan merely responded defensively. “Pakistan remains vigilant and fully committed to securing its borders and its people,” said Pakistani government spokesperson Mosharraf Zaidi.

The episode unfolded even as Islamabad and Kabul had concluded another round of bilateral talks, adding strain to an already fragile relationship marked by security and border disputes.

India also voiced deep concern about what it termed Pakistan’s “trade and transit coercion” against Afghanistan. With border crossings frequently shut or restricted, Afghanistan — a landlocked country dependent on cross-border movement — has seen disruptions in food, medicine and fuel supplies. India argued that such actions violate WTO norms and effectively function as economic pressure tactics against an already vulnerable nation.

Reaffirming its support for Afghanistan’s sovereignty and independence, India called for pragmatic engagement with the Taliban administration. Harish said global powers should incentivise constructive behaviour instead of relying solely on punitive measures, warning that unilateral actions risk perpetuating the stagnation of the last several years.