The Taliban government in Afghanistan announced that its forces killed 58 Pakistani soldiers and wounded 30 others during overnight border operations. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said the attacks occurred at multiple border posts and claimed that the situation on the Afghanistan‑Pakistan frontier is now “under complete control,” with “illegal activities largely prevented.” The reported casualties have not been confirmed by Islamabad.
Pakistani state media, however, asserted that its military captured 19 Afghan posts from which the attacks were launched on Saturday night. A video broadcast by Pakistan Television showed Afghan posts in flames and Taliban soldiers allegedly surrendering in Kurram. Radio Pakistan reported that the Pakistani army also destroyed the Taliban’s Manojba Camp Battalion Headquarters, Jandusar Post, Turkmenzai Camp, and Kharchar Fort. Pakistani Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi described the Afghan attacks as “unprovoked” and accused Afghan forces of firing on civilians. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the assaults, stating that “there will be no compromise on Pakistan’s defense, and every provocation will be met with a strong and effective response.”
The clashes follow recent explosions in Kabul that the Taliban blamed on Pakistan. Islamabad has neither confirmed nor denied responsibility for the air strike but said it would take all necessary measures to protect its citizens. Pakistan has experienced a surge in terrorism in recent months, which it attributes to the outlawed Tehreek‑e‑Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Cross‑border tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan have intensified, with both sides accusing each other of harboring militants.
On Friday, Islamabad accused the Afghan Taliban of sheltering fighters with the support of India, Pakistan’s regional rival. The escalation coincided with Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi’s visit to Delhi as the two nations seek to normalize ties. Muttaqi denied the presence of TTP fighters in Afghanistan, saying Kabul wants “good relations and peace” but is ready to firmly protect its interests and sovereignty.
The border situation remains volatile, with both sides exchanging accusations and engaging in military action. The conflict has significant implications for regional stability and security, and it remains to be seen how the situation will develop in the coming days.
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