US backs Pakistan's right to defend itself' against Taliban after strikes on Afghanistan

"The Islamic emirate of Afghanistan has always tried to resolve issues through dialogue, and now also we want to resolve this matter through dialogue. The Pakistani strikes hit parts of Kabul, Kandahar and Paktia on Thursday night, and Paktia, Paktika, Khost and Laghman on Friday."

"We continue to monitor the situation closely and expressed support for Pakistan's right to defend itself against Taliban attacks. Pakistan is a key ally of Washington, which considers the Afghan Taliban which returned to power in Kabul in 2021."

"Pakistan accuses Afghanistan's Taliban government of sheltering militant groups that stage attacks across the border a claim denied by Kabul and of allying with India, its historic enemy and regional rival."

Pakistan launched airstrikes targeting major Afghan cities including Kabul, Kandahar, and Paktia following Afghan forces' attacks on Pakistani border troops. The Pakistani defense minister declared open war with Afghanistan, stating patience had exhausted in Islamabad. The Taliban government expressed willingness to resolve the conflict through dialogue. Pakistan accuses the Taliban of harboring militant groups conducting cross-border attacks and collaborating with India, allegations Kabul denies. The United States endorsed Pakistan's right to self-defense, while the UK and EU urged both nations to de-escalate and resume negotiations. Previous ceasefire efforts and peace talks have not produced lasting agreements.

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