Taliban: Dozens of Civilians Killed and Wounded in Pakistan Attacks on Paktia, Paktika and Kunar

The Taliban say dozens of civilians, including women and children, were killed and wounded in Pakistani attacks on the provinces of Paktia, Paktika and Kunar. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid described the attacks as “cowardly, aggressive and barbaric,” saying Pakistani forces targeted residential areas in the districts of Samkani in Paktia, Giyan in Paktika and Manogai in Kunar. According to Taliban security sources, the highest number of casualties occurred in the Mandi Khail area of Samkani district in Paktia, where about 100 people were reportedly killed or wounded. Pakistan said its forces carried out ground operations and airstrikes along the Durand Line, targeting positions of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Jamaat-ul-Ahrar. Islamabad said 25 militants were killed in the operation. Images shared on social media show wounded civilians, including children, following the attacks.