KABUL – The Afghan government, led by the Taliban, has accused the United States of repeatedly violating its airspace with unmanned aerial vehicles (drones). According to a statement released Saturday by government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, these drones are entering Afghan airspace through neighboring countries.
Mujahid stated that the Afghan government has formally requested an immediate halt to these drone flights, asserting that they undermine Afghanistan’s sovereignty. He refrained from naming the specific countries allegedly facilitating the drone incursions, although previous statements from Kabul have implicated Pakistan, according to Afghan news agency, Khama Press.
“We have officially requested that the drone flights cease immediately,” Mujahid said. “These violations are unacceptable and erode our national sovereignty.”
The accusations come amid escalating tensions between Kabul and Islamabad. The Afghan government has repeatedly alleged cross-border interference, while Pakistan accuses militants based in Afghanistan of launching attacks on its territory. These tensions have been further heightened since deadly border clashes last month. Islamabad has threatened to take action if the attacks persist, even as efforts to mediate a de-escalation between the two neighboring countries remain stalled.
The presence of US drones in Afghan airspace remains a sensitive issue, raising questions about ongoing security concerns and the future of relations between Afghanistan and the United States. The Afghan government views these flights as a violation of its territorial integrity and a challenge to its authority. This latest development is likely to further strain relations between Afghanistan and the international community.
DZWatch continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as they become available.
