Kabul, March 19 (NationPress) In a recent development, Pakistani military units launched more than 70 artillery shells into the Kunar province of Afghanistan, as reported by local sources on Thursday. This event took place during Eid al-Fitr, a time when both Afghanistan and Pakistan had agreed to a temporary cessation of hostilities.

Zia-ur-Rahman Spin Ghar, the information head of Kunar’s Department of Information and Culture, disclosed that 35 shells were targeted at various locations, including Barikot, Dokalam, and Tsongalai within the Narai district, according to Afghanistan's Ariana News. Moreover, reports indicated that 37 additional shells hit regions in Manogai district.

As of now, local authorities have reported no casualties arising from these attacks. However, Spin Ghar indicated that the shelling in Narai is ongoing, with some rounds dangerously landing near individuals who were returning to their homes.

Officials have advised residents to remain vigilant and seek refuge in safer areas while the situation continues to be monitored. This incident occurs against a backdrop of escalating tensions and exchanges of fire between Pakistan and Afghanistan, further aggravating security issues along the Durand Line.

Afghan officials have consistently accused Pakistan of striking civilian targets, while Islamabad has defended its military actions as necessary against militant factions operating from within Afghan borders.

On Wednesday, Afghanistan announced a suspension of its 'Rad al-Zulm' defensive operations for Eid, following requests from mediating nations, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkiye.

In a public statement, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid highlighted that this pause reflects a commitment to mediation efforts. He asserted that Afghan forces will respond decisively to any acts of aggression that threaten national security, territorial integrity, or civilian safety.

Pakistan similarly declared a temporary ceasefire for Eid, with Information Minister Ataullah Tarar stating that this decision came in response to appeals from regional mediators.

On Tuesday, Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi condemned recent Pakistani airstrikes on Kabul, describing them as severe violations of humanitarian and Islamic principles. He reported that over 408 individuals lost their lives, and more than 260 were injured due to a Pakistani strike, with the majority being patients at a drug rehabilitation center, as reported by Ariana News. He accused Pakistan of intentionally targeting civilian infrastructure.

In a meeting with various diplomats and organizational representatives in Kabul, Muttaqi expressed that the Pakistani airstrike targeted one of society's most vulnerable groups—those undergoing treatment for drug addiction.

He cautioned that repeated assaults since February, including attacks on civilian sites across Afghanistan, have eroded faith in diplomatic solutions. He warned that Afghan forces will pursue “proportional and legitimate” defensive measures if such attacks persist, reiterating that Afghanistan seeks peace but will defend its sovereignty and territory.