A Pakistani fighter aircraft was shot down near Jalalabad in eastern Afghanistan amid rising tensions between Islamabad and Kabul, according to Afghan officials. Authorities in Afghanistan claimed that their air defence units intercepted the jet after it allegedly entered Afghan airspace.
In a statement released by Afghan security sources, the pilot reportedly ejected safely before being captured alive by Afghan forces on the ground. Local media outlets cited officials as saying the pilot was taken into custody and is currently being held for questioning. Afghan authorities have described the incident as a response to what they termed a violation of national sovereignty.
Islamabad has not immediately issued a detailed public response to the claims. However, defence analysts note that relations between the two neighbouring countries have deteriorated in recent weeks, with cross-border accusations over militant activity and airspace incursions.
Jalalabad, located close to the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, has historically been a flashpoint in regional security tensions. The reported downing of a fighter jet marks a significant escalation and could further strain diplomatic ties between the two nations.
International observers have urged both sides to exercise restraint to prevent a broader military confrontation in an already volatile region. Further official confirmations and independent verification of the incident are awaited.
