Afghan Forces Claim Downing of Pakistani Jet after intense cross-border strikes with Pakistan. Afghan broadcaster TOLOnews reported that Afghan forces shot down a Pakistani aircraft that entered Afghan airspace.
An unverified video circulating online showed burning wreckage marked with serial number 85510 and a Pakistani flag. Social media users claimed it was a Pakistani F-16 fighter jet. However, the aircraft’s shape and size did not match that of an F-16. Pakistan denied losing any aircraft during the strikes. The broadcaster NDTV said it could not independently verify the Afghan claim.
The incident follows heavy fighting along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border. Pakistan carried out airstrikes in Kabul and other cities after accusing Afghan forces of attacking its troops. Islamabad said it targeted militants and reported no aircraft losses.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that Pakistan’s armed forces have the capability to crush aggressive ambitions.
Tensions have risen sharply since deadly clashes in October. A ceasefire brokered by Qatar and Turkey has failed to secure lasting peace.
