China’s attempts to mediate between Pakistan and Afghanistan have not been successful, with tensions between the two nations persisting. Despite mediation efforts by Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and China, hostilities continue intensively, as reported by The Diplomat. Following talks in Urumqi mediated by China in April, where Pakistan and Afghanistan agreed not to escalate the situation, a brief calm was shattered when Pakistan reportedly launched an artillery strike on a health center in Kunar province, as per Taliban radio.
China remains engaged in seeking a resolution to the conflict between Pakistan and the Taliban. Chinese Special Envoy for Afghanistan Ambassador Yue Xiaoyong held separate meetings with Pakistani officials and the Taliban in May to assess progress post the Urumqi talks. While China’s efforts prioritize its regional interests, the situation necessitates a more pragmatic solution addressing the concerns of both sides to prevent the likely failure of future talks in delivering tangible outcomes, according to The Diplomat’s report.
Reports from Afghan media outlet Tolo News indicate that Pakistan has conducted over 10 airstrikes across Afghanistan in the past five months, resulting in the deaths and injuries of more than 800 civilians. These strikes targeted various Afghan provinces, including Khost, Paktia, Paktika, Kunar, Kabul, Nangarhar, and Kandahar, with civilians bearing the brunt of the casualties. The attacks have also damaged civilian infrastructure, including homes, hospitals, schools, and universities.
In response to recent events, Pakistan carried out an airstrike following a bomb and gun attack on a Rangers facility in Karachi. The military attributed the attack to militants from Jamaatul-Ahrar, a TTP splinter group, who detonated an explosive at the camp’s entrance before opening fire on paramilitary troops. This incident is noted as one of the most significant attacks in Karachi since the 2024 explosion that targeted a Chinese convoy, resulting in the deaths of two Chinese nationals.
