Fresh clashes broke out between Pakistani and Afghan forces over the weekend, intensifying hostilities between the two neighbouring nations. The Taliban-led Afghan government launched strikes late Saturday, claiming it was a retaliatory move against Pakistan’s alleged air raid on Kabul days earlier. Pakistan responded with counterfire, leading to heavy casualties on both sides though the death tolls remain disputed.
Afghanistan said its forces killed 58 Pakistani soldiers, while Pakistan reported losing 23 troops and claimed over 200 Taliban fighters were killed in return. Border crossings were closed on Sunday as tensions soared.
- Why Afghanistan Struck
The Taliban accused Pakistan of carrying out airstrikes on Kabul and an eastern marketplace, though Islamabad has denied any involvement. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid declared that Afghanistan would “defend its land” and remain steadfast against outside aggression. - Conflicting Casualty Counts
The Taliban claimed 58 Pakistani soldiers were killed and 30 wounded, while losing nine fighters themselves. Pakistan’s military, however, asserted that 23 Pakistani troops were killed and more than 200 Taliban militants were neutralized. Independent verification of these numbers remains unavailable. - Strained Relations
Since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, relations between Islamabad and Kabul have been uneasy. Pakistan has repeatedly accused Afghanistan of providing refuge to Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants, responsible for attacks inside Pakistan. Afghanistan continues to reject these allegations. - Pakistan’s Response
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, quoted by AFP, said there would be “no compromise on Pakistan’s defence,” warning that all provocations would face a “strong and effective response.” He accused Afghan authorities of allowing their territory to be used by terrorist groups hostile to Pakistan. - Afghanistan’s Warning
Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi cautioned Pakistan that Afghanistan has “other options” if peace talks fail. He hinted that certain factions within Islamabad were seeking to worsen bilateral ties. Reports from Reuters indicate that Qatar and Saudi Arabia have stepped in to mediate as both sides pause hostilities.
Related Articles
-
-
-
-
