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US Backs Pakistan's Right to Self-Defense Amid Rising Afghan Tensions

A senior US official has expressed condolences to Pakistan and affirmed its right to defend itself against attacks from Afghanistan. The US Embassy in Pakistan has issued a security alert, advising citizens to exercise caution in major cities due to heightened tensions and potential terrorist threats. Tensions have escalated sharply, with both sides conducting retaliatory strikes and Pakistan declaring an "open war" on Kabul after airstrikes. In response, the Pakistani government has imposed a nationwide ban on all drone operations.

Key Points: US Supports Pakistan Against Afghan Attacks, Issues Security Alert

  • US affirms Pakistan's self-defense right
  • Embassy issues security alert for citizens
  • Tensions escalate with retaliatory strikes
  • Pakistan bans all drone operations nationwide
  • Taliban attacks prompt increased security
2 min read

US backs Pakistan's 'right to defend itself' against Afghan attacks

US official affirms Pakistan's right to defend itself against Taliban attacks as tensions escalate, prompting security alerts for US citizens in major cities.

"We continue to monitor the situation closely and express support for Pakistan's right to defend itself against Taliban attacks. - Allison Hooker"

Washington DC, February 28

US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker on Friday expressed condolences to Pakistan for the lives lost in the recent conflict with Afghanistan and affirmed support for Pakistan's right to defend itself.

In a post on X, Allison Hooker wrote, "Spoke today with Pakistan Foreign Secretary Baloch to express condolences for lives lost in the recent conflict between Pakistan and the Taliban. We continue to monitor the situation closely and express support for Pakistan's right to defend itself against Taliban attacks."

The US Embassy in Pakistan has issued a security alert advising citizens to exercise caution in major cities due to heightened tensions with Afghanistan and potential terrorist threats targeting law enforcement, military, and commercial sites.

As per the statement, "Due to heightened tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, Pakistani security forces have increased their presence in major cities in response to potential terrorist threats. Law enforcement facilities, military installations, and major commercial centers remain likely targets for terrorist organizations. The U.S. Mission advises citizens to exercise caution when visiting these locations, particularly during peak hours."

"We remind U.S. citizens to observe good personal security practices, including being aware of your surroundings, avoiding large crowds, and ensuring your STEP registration is up to date," the statement reads.

Tensions between Kabul and Islamabad have escalated, with both sides accusing one another of retaliatory strikes, raising fears of a wider military conflict in the region.

Islamabad declared "open war" on Kabul after carrying out airstrikes in parts of Kabul, Kandahar and Paktia, further intensifying tensions between the two neighbouring countries.

Earlier, Pakistan's Information Minister, Attaullah Tarar, said that Afghanistan carried out drone attacks on Abbottabad, Swabi, and Nowshera, as per Tolo News.

He also added that anti-drone systems brought down the drones and that there was no loss of life.

The Pakistan government announced a nationwide ban on all drone operations after tensions intensified due to border clashes. The Ministry of Interior issued a notification enforcing the prohibition on all commercial and privately operated drones across the country, as per Geo News.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
This is a worrying escalation right at our doorstep. The instability will affect the whole region. I hope our government is closely monitoring and securing our borders. The last thing we need is spillover effects or refugees. 🙏
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Aman W
Typical US foreign policy – supporting Pakistan when it suits them. Where was this "right to defend" when terrorist attacks originated from Pakistani soil against India? The double standards are glaring. Hope our diplomats highlight this hypocrisy.
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Sarah B
Reading this from a security perspective, the drone ban across Pakistan is a significant step. It shows how serious the threat perception is. The US advisory for its citizens is also very specific. This could get much worse before it gets better.
K
Karthik V
The common people on both sides, in Pakistan and Afghanistan, will suffer the most. War is never a solution. As a neighbour, India should advocate for dialogue and regional stability, even if our relations with Pakistan are strained. A fire next door can spread.
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Nisha Z
Abbottabad and Swabi mentioned... brings back memories. The instability in that region has deep roots. The US backing is purely strategic, not moral. India must stay focused on its own growth and security without getting drawn into this mess.

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