Overnight firing and retaliatory attacks occurred between Afghan and Pakistani forces on the border. Afghanistan claimed the death of 58 Pakistani soldiers. Pakistan closed major and minor checkpoints, and security was increased.
World Update: Firing and retaliatory attacks continued on the border between Afghan and Pakistani forces from Saturday night through Sunday. Both countries acted against each other's border outposts. During this, Afghanistan claimed the death of 58 Pakistani soldiers and 20 of its own soldiers being injured. Pakistan also retaliated but did not disclose its casualty figures.
The situation became so severe that Pakistan closed its main border checkpoints. Afghan officials stated that the operations on the border continued until midnight, and minor attacks persisted in some areas until Sunday morning. The Afghan administration said that the attacks were halted at the request of Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
Series of Retaliatory Actions
Afghan soldiers attacked Pakistan's border outposts late Saturday night. Afghanistan's Ministry of Defense stated this was in response to Pakistani airstrikes conducted in Afghanistan last week. Pakistan also used firearms and artillery in retaliation. Both sides claimed to have destroyed each other's outposts. Pakistani security officials shared videos showing Afghan outposts being targeted.
Although the border firing largely subsided by Sunday morning, minor attacks continued in some locations in Pakistan's Kurram region. Afghan spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid stated that the Afghan people and soldiers should be fully prepared to defend their land.
Pakistan Closes Major and Minor Border Checkpoints
Pakistan has closed its two main border checkpoints, Torkham and Chaman. Additionally, three minor checkpoints like Kharlachi, Angoor Adda, and Ghulam Khan have also been closed. Pakistani officials stated that a leader of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) was targeted in the airstrikes. However, Afghanistan denied TTP's involvement in these attacks and the accusation of them launching attacks on Pakistan from Afghan soil.
The long border between the two countries is approximately 2,600 kilometers, and this region has often been a flashpoint for violence and border disputes. The recent incidents have further escalated tensions between the two nations.
Afghanistan's Claim
Afghan officials stated that Afghan forces undertook strategic actions against Pakistani outposts and ensured their security during retaliatory attacks. The Afghan government cited Pakistan's border closure and retaliatory actions as necessary for border security.
The Pakistani side also took action to ensure its security. Pakistan stated that its airstrikes were aimed at targeting TTP hideouts, but Afghan officials rejected this claim. Both countries have currently expressed the possibility of talks to establish peace and prevent the escalation of the conflict.
Security Increased at the Border
This border violence has become a serious security challenge for both countries. Pakistan and Afghanistan have deployed additional troops along the border. The Afghan administration has assured the public that there is no threat in any area and the situation is under control.
Pakistan has also tightened security at border checkpoints and is prepared for any unexpected attack. Both countries have currently instructed their respective troops to remain vigilant at the outposts.
