Politics / Japan

A Pakistani airstrike on a hospital in Kabul has reportedly resulted in at least 400 deaths and around 250 injuries, according to Afghanistan's interim Taliban government. The Taliban condemned the attack, asserting that many victims were innocent civilians. Pakistan, however, denied targeting the hospital, claiming the strike was aimed at Taliban military installations. Tensions between Pakistan and the Taliban have escalated following clashes over cross-border terror attacks, which have led to significant civilian casualties. Although both sides had previously agreed to a ceasefire, fighting resumed last month, intensifying the conflict. The situation remains volatile as both parties continue to exchange accusations. In a related context, China and Vietnam recently held their first ministerial strategic dialogue, focusing on diplomacy, defense, and public security. Both nations acknowledged the complex developments in global and regional situations and agreed to enhance cooperation and information sharing to safeguard national security. Amid rising global crude oil prices due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, Vietnam and China also addressed their long-standing territorial disputes in the South China Sea. They emphasized the need for effective resolution of maritime issues and planned to hold further dialogues.