Tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan have reached a boiling point after the Afghan Taliban confirmed launching cross-border attacks that left dozens of Pakistani troops dead. According to Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, at least 58 Pakistani military personnel were killed and around 30 wounded in what he termed “an act of retaliation” for Pakistan’s alleged violation of Afghan airspace and bombing of a market in Paktika province last Thursday.
Pakistan, however, disputes those figures, claiming 23 of its troops were killed and 29 injured. Islamabad said it had “neutralized” over 200 Taliban and allied fighters in counterattacks. Both sides reportedly used small arms and artillery across multiple flashpoints, including Kunar, Kurram, Bajaur, and Dir.
Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi condemned the attacks as “unprovoked” and accused the Taliban of targeting civilians. He warned that Pakistan would respond “with a stone for every brick,” describing Afghanistan’s actions as “a game of fire and blood.”
Meanwhile, Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, currently on a visit to India, defended Kabul’s response, stating that Afghanistan had “a right to protect its borders” after repeated violations by Pakistan. He emphasized that Afghanistan had “no problem” with the Pakistani people but blamed certain groups within Pakistan for “spoiling the situation.”
The border violence has led to the closure of the two main crossings Torkham and Chaman disrupting trade and leaving hundreds of trucks stranded.
Saudi Arabia and Qatar have both urged restraint, calling for dialogue and diplomacy to prevent further escalation. The clashes come at a sensitive time, as Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of harbouring the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a militant group responsible for attacks inside its territory an allegation the Afghan Taliban has consistently denied.
With both nations trading blame and heavy casualties mounting, the region faces one of its most volatile moments since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021.
