Pakistan’s Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, has warned that Islamabad could launch air operations inside Afghanistan if it considers them necessary, raising regional tensions even as Kabul recently undertook a goodwill gesture.

In an interview with a French media outlet, Asif alleged that recent attacks within Pakistan were part of what he described as a “proxy conflict” involving Afghan authorities and India. He claimed that militant groups operating from Afghan territory were responsible for cross-border violence and said Pakistan would not hesitate to take military action if required.

The minister also referred to continuing friction with India, cautioning that the risk of confrontation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours persists amid strained relations.

His remarks come shortly after a conciliatory step by Kabul. Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, announced that three Pakistani soldiers captured during border clashes in October 2025 were released to mark the holy month of Ramadan.

According to Mujahid, the release was carried out as a gesture of goodwill and in line with the Islamic Emirate’s stated policy of maintaining positive relations with all countries. He said the decision followed a request from Saudi Arabia and that the soldiers were handed over to a Saudi delegation.

Relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan have faced repeated strains in recent years, largely over security concerns and allegations of cross-border militancy. Afghan officials, however, have consistently maintained that Afghan soil will not be used against any other country.

Afghanistan’s Chief of Armed Forces, Fasihuddin Fitrat, has emphasized the vital importance of military readiness and proper equipment.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony of 153 personnel from the 313 Central Corps, Fitrat stressed that preparedness is essential to defend against those who challenge the unity, strength, and honor of the Islamic system and the Afghan people.

He highlighted that even during past sensitive and challenging conditions, the Islamic Emirate maintained fully trained and equipped forces.

The Ministry of Defense reiterated that maintaining readiness and proper armament is both a religious and national duty. Leaders of the Islamic Emirate have historically ensured that their forces remain prepared under all circumstances, the ministry added.

The ceremony marked the eighth graduation from the 313 Central Corps Training Center, with 153 soldiers officially completing their training.

Officials highlighted that the Islamic Emirate continues to prioritize the comprehensive readiness of its forces to counter any potential threats to national security.

Astana recently hosted an extraordinary meeting of the Regional Contact Group on Afghanistan, bringing together representatives from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan to discuss regional engagement and cooperation with Afghanistan.

Yerkin Tokumov, Kazakhstan’s special presidential representative for Afghanistan, said the country is moving away from viewing Afghanistan solely as a security concern and is adopting an opportunity-driven approach.

He stressed the importance of strengthening political, economic, trade, and transit ties, highlighting Afghanistan’s role as a strategic bridge between Central and South Asia.

Esmatullah Ergashev, Uzbekistan’s special representative for Afghanistan, noted that Central Asian countries plan to advance joint projects in Afghanistan and further expand regional cooperation.

The meeting underscores a growing consensus among Afghanistan’s neighbors to leverage opportunities for partnership, aiming to foster regional stability, enhance economic integration, and support sustainable development initiatives in the country.