The United States said it supports Pakistan's right to defend itself against attacks by Afghanistan's Taliban rulers, after Islamabad declared it was in 'open war' with its neighbor. The statement came as violence escalated following Pakistani airstrikes on Afghan territory and retaliatory cross-border attacks.

A State Department spokesperson said the United States backs Pakistan against the Taliban, which it designates as a terrorist group, and expressed sadness over the loss of life. Pakistan, which possesses nuclear weapons and maintains significantly stronger conventional forces, has accused Afghanistan of sheltering Pakistani Taliban militants, a claim Kabul denies.

Afghanistan's Taliban leadership said it was willing to negotiate after Pakistani forces struck targets in major cities. Both sides have reported heavy casualties, with Pakistan's defense minister describing the situation as an 'open war' amid rising tensions along the border.