According to Iraf, local witnesses in Kabul stated that the sound of unmanned aerial vehicles was heard over parts of the city in the early hours of Thursday, May 14.
Eyewitnesses said the drones were circling around 4:20 a.m., and shortly afterward, several anti-aircraft rounds were fired near Kabul Airport.
Sources indicated that the drones subsequently departed Kabul’s airspace, but the Taliban have not issued any explanation regarding the nature of the flights or the reason for the anti-aircraft activity.
Context of Rising Regional Tensions
The incident comes amid escalating tensions between Pakistan and the Taliban in recent weeks, with the Pakistani military reportedly conducting multiple airstrikes targeting areas in and around Kabul.
One such strike hit the “Omid” addiction treatment center in eastern Kabul, which, according to United Nations reports, resulted in the deaths of more than 269 civilians and left at least 100 others injured.
Pakistan has consistently denied targeting civilian sites, claiming that its operations focus exclusively on “educational, military, and armament facilities” used by the Pakistani Taliban (TTP). However, UN reports indicate civilian casualties were present.
In addition to Kabul, Ghazni province has also witnessed recent airstrikes and continuous drone activity. Local sources reported multiple explosions in the Nawabad and Qala-e-Shahada areas, with drones observed over the province for several consecutive days.
Some sources allege that the Taliban have relocated TTP fighters to residential areas, raising further security concerns.
Statements from Pakistani Officials
Recently, Pakistani officials, including Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, warned of potential “stronger measures” against Afghan sovereignty.
Speaking to Pakistan’s National Assembly, Asif accused the Taliban of harboring “terrorist groups” and, referencing a “state of war” between the two sides, stated that Islamabad is prepared to carry out “severe, direct, and decisive actions” on Afghan soil.
