Pakistan, Feb. 23 -- The Afghan Taliban administration has restricted media access to areas reportedly struck by recent Pakistani air operations, raising serious questions about transparency and ground realities. The restrictions followed Pakistan's targeted action against alleged militant hideouts inside Afghan territory based on what officials described as verified and credible intelligence. The move has intensified regional tensions and triggered debate over cross-border security and militant sanctuaries. Observers say the media blackout has further complicated efforts to independently assess the impact of the strikes.

Pakistan carried out the airstrikes targeting locations believed to be used by militant groups responsible for cross...