India on Monday expressed strong condemnation over reports of Pakistani airstrikes on Afghanistan and said it is Islamabad’s old practice to blame its neighbours for its internal failures.
Pakistan carried out airstrikes in certain areas in Afghanistan in what it said was aimed at targeting some terrorist hideouts.
Addressing media queries, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal issued a firm statement rejecting any justification for such violence and calling out Pakistan for its baseless accusations.
“We have noted the media reports on airstrikes on Afghan civilians, including women and children, in which several precious lives have been lost. We unequivocally condemn any attack on innocent civilians,” Randhir Jaiswal said, emphasising India’s commitment to peace and stability in the region.
The statement also criticised Pakistan for attempting to shift focus from its internal failures by falsely accusing its neighbours. “It is an old practice of Pakistan to blame its neighbours for its own internal failures,” the spokesperson added.
The government acknowledged the response of an Afghan spokesperson, who similarly dismissed Pakistan’s allegations. India reaffirmed its solidarity with the Afghan people and called for restraint and dialogue to address any regional tensions.
This development comes at a time when South Asia is witnessing heightened instability, with Pakistan grappling with internal security and economic challenges.
