China backs Afghan sovereignty, leaving Pakistan’s General Munir cornered as India’s ally issues stern warning

International News: The fragile relationship between Afghanistan and Pakistan collapsed into violent clashes along the Kandahar border districts of Spin Boldak and Shorabak. On Wednesday morning, Afghan officials reported that Pakistani forces launched attacks using both light and heavy weapons. At least 12 Afghan civilians were confirmed dead, and more than 100 were injured in the shelling. Families were forced to flee as artillery fire and airstrikes shook the region, leaving houses damaged and spreading fear across villages.

China’s Unexpected Declaration

In a move that stunned Islamabad, China openly declared its support for Afghanistan’s sovereignty. This diplomatic shift has left Pakistan isolated, as Beijing criticized the violation of Afghan territory. Afghan officials, during a meeting with Chinese ambassador Zhao Xing, accused Pakistan of breaching humanitarian and neighborly values by launching attacks on Kabul. China acknowledged Afghanistan’s right to defend itself and expressed full respect for its sovereignty, a clear diplomatic blow to General Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government.

Taliban Push Back on Attacks

The Taliban’s foreign ministry strongly condemned Pakistan’s cross-border operations. Deputy minister Mohammad Naeem told Chinese officials that Pakistan’s aggression was a violation of Islamic and humanitarian values. He insisted Afghans had every right to defend their land against foreign attacks. This stance, backed by China’s support, emboldened Kabul, which now claims it has the legitimacy to respond firmly to Pakistan’s actions. For Islamabad, this support has come as an unexpected diplomatic setback.

Reports of Civilian Destruction

Afghan sources revealed that Pakistani airstrikes between Spin Boldak and Shorabak caused extensive damage to civilian homes. Houses collapsed, windows shattered, and neighborhoods were left in ruins. While Pakistani media claimed that 10-15 Taliban fighters were killed in the strikes, Afghan outlets reported that ordinary families bore the brunt of the attacks. The humanitarian crisis deepened as hundreds of villagers abandoned their homes, creating scenes of chaos and displacement in the conflict zone.

Pakistan Justifies Military Operations

Pakistan’s military defended its actions, stating that the operations targeted terrorist hideouts used to attack Pakistani territory. Officials in Islamabad argued that militants with Taliban support had carried out deadly raids inside Pakistan. Yet international observers remain unconvinced, highlighting that civilian casualties undermine Pakistan’s narrative. Analysts say the strikes may further tarnish Pakistan’s credibility at a time when it desperately needs international support to stabilize its own economy and politics.

Russia Appeals for Peace

Amid the rising tensions, Russia stepped in with an appeal for calm. Foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova urged both Afghanistan and Pakistan to show restraint and resolve disputes through political and diplomatic channels. She emphasized that Moscow considers both nations as friendly states and hopes constructive talks on counterterrorism and security will resume soon. Russia’s intervention shows growing global concern about South Asia turning into a new conflict hotspot.

Fears of Regional Fallout

Experts warn the clashes could spark a broader regional crisis if not contained quickly. With China backing Afghanistan, Russia calling for peace, and Pakistan under global criticism, South Asia faces fresh instability. Analysts caution that unless Islamabad changes course, the situation could escalate into a prolonged border war, endangering trade routes, regional security, and civilian lives. The spotlight is now firmly on General Munir’s leadership as Pakistan finds itself cornered diplomatically and militarily.