The United States has expressed support for what it called Pakistan’s right to defend itself against attacks from the Taliban based in Afghanistan, following Islamabad’s claim that relations with Kabul have reached a state of “open war.”

Pakistan stated earlier that it had conducted airstrikes against Taliban positions in Afghanistan after cross-border attacks, triggering retaliatory strikes and escalating long-running tensions. Afghan Taliban officials said they were willing to negotiate, but violence continued along the border.

A spokesperson for the U.S. State Department said Washington supports Pakistan’s right to self-defense against attacks by the Taliban, which it designates as a global terrorist organization. U.S. diplomat Allison Hooker also confirmed discussions with Pakistani officials regarding the situation.

Pakistan, a nuclear-armed state with significantly stronger military capabilities than Afghanistan, faces security challenges from militant groups operating in border regions. The Taliban, however, have experience in guerrilla warfare after decades of conflict and seized power in Afghanistan in 2021 following the withdrawal of U.S. forces.

The recent escalation stems from Pakistan’s claim that Afghan territory is being used by militants targeting its security forces—a charge denied by Kabul, which argues that Islamabad is shifting blame for internal security issues.

The State Department acknowledged rising tensions and expressed sadness over reported casualties, urging restraint from both sides. However, it reiterated concerns that terrorist groups continue to operate from Afghan territory, complicating regional security efforts.

Diplomatic engagement remains limited as both nations accuse each other of failing to curb militant activities, raising fears of prolonged instability in the region.