A fresh clash erupted on Tuesday night at the Pakistan-Afghanistan border in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The Pakistani army retaliated after Afghan firing. Several posts and tanks were damaged. Tensions have escalated at the border.
Pakistan Afghanistan Border Clash: New clashes occurred on Tuesday night at the Pakistan-Afghanistan border in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Kurram district. According to Pakistani media, Afghan soldiers initiated "unprovoked" firing, forcing Pakistani security forces to retaliate. Several Afghan posts and tanks were damaged in this engagement. This incident marks the second border dispute clash this week, highlighting escalating tensions and security challenges along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border.
Rising Tensions on the Durand Line
Pakistani and Afghan soldiers have been involved in clashes at several locations along the 2,600-kilometer-long Durand Line. Both sides claimed control over and destruction of border posts. During Tuesday night's clash, firing intensified between the Afghan Taliban and Pakistan's security forces. Pakistani media reported that Afghan forces fired first, after which the Pakistani army retaliated.
Pakistani Army's Retaliation
Pakistan's security officials confirmed that Afghan tanks and several posts were damaged in the retaliation. Pakistan TV (PTV News) reported that the Pakistani army responded with full force and intensity. In this border clash, Pakistani soldiers demonstrated their readiness and retaliatory capabilities.
Afghan Side's Response
Tahir Ahrar, Deputy Police Spokesperson for Afghanistan's Khost province, confirmed the clashes but did not share further details. The Afghan government stated that their soldiers were undertaking active security operations at the border but rejected the allegations made by Pakistan.
Previous Developments and Border Closure
Last week, there was also cross-border firing between the two countries, resulting in several casualties. Following this incident, the armies of both countries remained on high alert. However, clashes ceased on Sunday after mediation by Saudi Arabia and Qatar, but the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan remains completely closed.
TTP Issue Escalates Tensions
Pakistan has long accused Afghanistan regarding the hideouts and activities of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The TTP is distinct from the Afghan Taliban but closely associated with it. Islamabad states that Afghan soil is being used by the TTP to launch attacks against Pakistan. However, Kabul has rejected this accusation, stating that Afghan soil is not being used against any neighboring country.
