150 Pakistani soldiers killed in Afghan counterattacks: Khwarazmi

KABUL (Pajhwok): Afghanistan’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) says 150 Pakistani soldiers have been killed, over 200 others wounded and around 40 military posts captured in retaliatory attacks by Afghan forces.

Enayatullah Khwarazmi, spokesman for MoD, told a press conference in Kabul today (Saturday) that at least 28 Afghan troops have been martyred and 42 others wounded since the conflict with Pakistan began.

He emphasised that the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) has the legitimate right to defend its territory.

Khwarazmi said Afghan forces carried out heavy counterstrikes under “Operation Rad-ul-Zalm” against Pakistani militias in the past 24 hours.

Along the Durand Line, 25 engagements occurred during this period, including offensive and defensive operations.

He added that 13 Pakistani posts were destroyed, four soldiers killed and several others wounded during the period. Afghan forces also seized light and heavy weapons from the Pakistani military during these operations.

The Pakistani military violated Afghan airspace on February 21, launching airstrikes on residential areas in eastern Nangarhar and southeastern Paktika provinces, with strikes remain continuing.

Afghan forces began retaliatory attacks on Pakistani military installations on February 26, with officials reporting heavy casualties on the Pakistani side.

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