Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Feb 23: India on Sunday strongly condemned fresh airstrikes carried out by Pakistan on Afghan territory that reportedly resulted in civilian casualties.

Describing the strikes as an attempt to “externalise its internal failures,” New Delhi reiterated its firm support for Afghanistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

“India strongly condemns Pakistan's airstrikes on Afghan territory that have resulted in civilian casualties, including women and children, during the holy month of Ramadan,” External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in response to media queries.

“It is another attempt by Pakistan to externalise its internal failures. India reiterates its support for Afghanistan's sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence,” he added.

Pakistan, however, defended the action, stating that the airstrikes targeted at least seven militant hideouts in Afghanistan in retaliation for recent rebel attacks inside its territory. Islamabad claimed that at least 70 terrorists were killed in the military operation.

“Afghanistan has long been exporting terrorism. Pakistan is taking all actions to secure the life and property of its citizens,” Pakistan’s State Minister for Interior Talal Chaudhry said.

The development has further escalated tensions in the region amid rising security concerns.