Tragedy in Paktika: Pakistan’s Airstrikes Target Afghan Cricketers
On October 17, 2025, Afghanistan’s southeastern Paktika province met with a tragic mishap, where a Pakistani airstrike resulted in the deaths of at least three Afghan cricketers. The victims—Kabeer Agha, Sibghatullah Zirok, and Haroon—were returning from a friendly match in Sharana when their vehicle was struck near the Pakistan border. This tragic incident has not only claimed the lives of promising young athletes but has also escalated tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, drawing criticism from the international community.
The Incident
According to the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB), the three cricketers were traveling from Urgun to Sharana when the airstrike occurred. The ACB confirmed their deaths and announced the country’s withdrawal from an upcoming tri-nation T20 series involving Pakistan and Sri Lanka, scheduled for November 17–29, 2025, in Rawalpindi and Lahore. “The withdrawal was undertaken to honor the victims and register a strong protest against the strike.”
Reactions from the Cricketing World
Afghanistan’s cricket captain, Rashid Khan, expressed his outrage, labeling the attack as “absolutely immoral and barbaric.” He convicted the loss of the players and emphasized the significant effect on the Afghan sporting community. Former captain Mohammad Nabi also raised his sorrow, highlighting the emotional burden on the team and the nation.
Pakistan’s Justification
Pakistan’s military stated that the airstrike targeted hideouts of the banned Hafiz Gul Bahadur group, which is part of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and operates in the area Security sources claimed that precision strikes were conducted against these militant hideouts, reportedly killing dozens of fighters. However, the presence of civilians, including the cricketers, in the targeted area has raised questions about the accuracy and necessity of the strike.
Humanitarian Impact
The deaths of the cricketers have sent shockwaves through Afghanistan, a nation where cricket serves as a source of pride and unity. The loss of these young talents not only deprives the sport of promising players but also highlighting the larger humanitarian crisis in conflict zones. ”The incident has highlighted the exposure of ordinary people and athletes to danger in conflict zones.”
Diplomatic Fallout
The airstrike has worsened the diplomatic relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Afghanistan blamed Pakistan that it has violated the ceasefire agreement and contravening international norms by targeting civilians. Responding Afganistan’s blame, Pakistan announced it would send top officials to Qatar for high-level talks with the Afghan Taliban, aiming to address the increasing violence and seek a path towards reduction.
International Reactions
The international community has expressed concern over the incident. The United Nations has called for an independent investigation into the airstrike to determine accountability and prevent further civilian casualties. Human rights organizations have condemned the attack, urging both nations to adhere to international humanitarian laws and protect civilians in conflict zones.
Conclusion
In addition to depriving Afghanistan of three talented cricket players, the Pakistani airstrike that killed Kabeer Agha, Sibghatullah Zirok, and Haroon has increased tensions between two nearby countries. This terrible incident serves as a sobering reminder of the human cost of war and the necessity of redoubling regional peace and diplomatic efforts. It is crucial that all sides prioritize protecting civilians and seek a peaceful end to the ongoing hostilities while the whole community closely monitors the situation.
