Tensions have reached a boiling point along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border following recent airstrikes and skirmishes. According to security sources and local reports, fierce clashes erupted late at night in the Gavi region of Pakistan's Kurram district along the Durand Line. Initially, light firearms were used for about thirty minutes before escalating to artillery and heavy shelling.
This violent confrontation erupted when Taliban forces allegedly opened fire on multiple Pakistani border posts late Saturday night. Local media released footage displaying relentless exchange of fire and bombardment from both sides.
Indeed, on the night of October 11, the Afghan Taliban launched significant assaults on Pakistani military positions near the Durand Line in Nangarhar and Kunar provinces. The 201 Khalid Bin Walid Army Corps struck Pakistani posts in these regions.
12 Pakistani Soldiers Killed
The Taliban government’s Ministry of Defense informed TOLO News that the forces of the Islamic Emirates of Afghanistan have taken control of several Pakistani posts. One post each in Kunar and Helmand provinces was completely destroyed.
Security sources mentioned that during the clashes in Bahram Chah district of Helmand, 12 Pakistani soldiers were killed, and a tank fell into Afghan forces' hands. Furthermore, in Kandahar’s Maywand district, five Pakistani soldiers surrendered to the Taliban.
Meanwhile, Pakistani media claimed that their forces targeted several Afghan border posts effectively, leading to substantial damage to Afghan posts and militant hideouts. Several Afghan soldiers and fighters were reportedly killed.
Source: aajtak
Qatar Expresses Concern, Calls for Dialogue
Amid mounting conflicts at the border, Qatar officially expressed anxiety over the situation. Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that the rising tension and violence could severely impact regional stability and security. Qatar urged both countries to engage in dialogue, diplomacy, and self-restraint.
The ministry stated, “Qatar is concerned about the escalating border tension between the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and Afghanistan. We call on both sides to prioritize dialogue and diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and avoid further escalation.”
Qatar also affirmed its support for all efforts strengthening international peace and regional stability. The statement read, “Qatar stands with regional and international efforts aimed at enhancing global peace and security. It is committed to the welfare and prosperity of the people in both Pakistan and Afghanistan.”
Root of Tension: Pakistani Airstrikes
It is noteworthy that on the night of October 9, when Afghanistan’s capital Kabul and other cities were engulfed in silence, Pakistani fighter jets unexpectedly unleashed airstrikes. Alleged TTP hideouts in Kabul, Khost, Jalalabad, and Paktika were targeted.
It is claimed that the objective of these strikes was to eliminate TTP chief Noor Wali Mehsud, held responsible for terrorist activities on their soil. The Taliban’s Ministry of Defense condemned these attacks as the onset of war, further deepening the already strained relations between the two nations. However, Pakistan did not explicitly take responsibility for these strikes.
Source: aajtak
Taliban Issued Stern Warning
Following these incidents, the Afghan Taliban issued a stern warning. In a declaration, the Taliban government stated, “Our actions in the city ceased at midnight, but should the opposition again violate Afghanistan’s territorial boundaries, our armed forces are ready to defend our airspace and will respond vigorously.”
The escalating border tensions are impacting the local population as well. Residents in Kurram, Bajaur, and North Waziristan villages have lost their sleep. The noise of bullets and shells has instilled fear among children and the elderly. Numerous families have fled their homes.
Source: aajtak
Civilians Forced to Flee
The Gavi area of Pakistan's Kurram district witnessed intense gunfire between the armies of both nations. According to local sources, the clash began with small arms but quickly escalated to artillery and heavy weapons. Gunfire was also reported in Bajaur (146 Wing), Kurram (155 Wing), 41 Horse Regiment, 148 AD North Waziristan, and Shaheeden Dand area of Lower Kurram.
Military posts on both sides remain on high alert, and intermittent shelling occurred in the border regions. In the Aryub Zazi district of Paktia province, clashes continued since morning between Afghan border forces and Pakistani soldiers. Locals reported an atmosphere of fear and unrest in the border villages. Many families are evacuating to safer locations.
Taliban Foreign Minister on India Tour
Pakistan conducted these airstrikes in Afghan territories while Taliban regime's Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi was on an 8-day visit to India. When journalists questioned him about Pakistan’s airstrikes, Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi remarked, 'Afghans’ bravery should not be tested. We desire better relations with both India and Pakistan, but it cannot be a one-sided affair. If anyone wants to test Afghans' bravery, they should ask the Soviet Union, the US, and NATO, so they understand that playing games with Afghanistan is not wise.'
