Pakistan Targets 7 Militant Hideouts in Afghanistan in Response to Attacks

Pakistan has announced targeted strikes on seven militant hideouts inside Afghanistan, saying the action was taken in response to recent terrorist attacks within its territory. Officials described the operation as intelligence-based and limited in scope.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, recent suicide attacks in Pakistan were orchestrated by militant leadership and facilitators based in Afghanistan. The statement linked the incidents in Islamabad, Bajaur, and Bannu to cross-border elements.

The ministry said the banned outfit Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan and its allied groups claimed responsibility for the attacks. Pakistan maintains that these groups operate from Afghan territory.

Officials stated that Pakistan possesses credible evidence showing that the attacks were carried out under directives from militant leaders based in Afghanistan. The identified locations were targeted accordingly.

Press Release
21 February, 2026

In the aftermath of recent suicide bombing incidents in Pakistan, including Imam Bargah at Islamabad, one each in Bajaur and Bannu followed by another incident today in Bannu during the holy month of Ramzan, Pakistan has conclusive evidence that…

— Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (@MoIB_Official) February 21, 2026

The government reiterated that it had repeatedly urged the interim administration of the Afghan Taliban to take verifiable action against terrorist organizations and proxy elements using its soil, but claimed that effective measures were not implemented.

The statement emphasized that the strikes were conducted to safeguard Pakistani citizens and were based on precise intelligence. Authorities described the action as necessary and proportionate.

Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to regional peace and stability, while stressing that national security remains its top priority. It also called on the international community to press the Afghan interim government to fulfill its obligations under the Doha Agreement.