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.