Tensions rise on border: Taliban retaliates against Pakistani post

International Desk
A new round of intense fighting has broken out on the Afghanistan-Pakistan border. The two sides exchanged gunfire for hours after Taliban forces claimed to have retaliated against multiple border posts in Pakistan.

Pakistan’s Information Ministry said that Pakistani troops responded promptly and effectively to “unprovoked firing” by Afghan forces at various points along the border. They claimed that this resulted in casualties on the enemy and the destruction of several posts and military equipment. The country said that all necessary measures will be taken to protect its territorial integrity and the security of its citizens.

According to Pakistani officials, Afghan forces opened fire on several border posts in the mountainous northwestern region. Pakistani forces retaliated after clashes that lasted for more than two hours.

The Taliban administration, on the other hand, claimed that it had launched a “large-scale offensive operation” targeting Pakistani military positions along the border. Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid said in a statement on social media that the move was in response to repeated provocations. He added that specialized laser units were used in the night operation.

Both sides have claimed to have captured or destroyed various border posts. The Taliban have claimed that around 40 Pakistani soldiers have been killed in Kunar province. However, Pakistani security sources say that 22 Taliban members have been killed in their operations and several drones have been shot down. These claims could not be independently verified.

Earlier this week, Pakistan carried out airstrikes in eastern Afghanistan, which Islamabad claimed were bases for the Pakistani Taliban and the Khorasan-based militant group. Kabul denied the allegations and said many civilians, including children, were killed in the attacks.

Pakistan has long alleged that Pakistani Taliban leaders are taking refuge in Afghan territory and planning attacks inside Pakistan. The Taliban administration has consistently denied this allegation.

Pakistan has beefed up security across the country amid rising tensions. Forces have been put on high alert and intelligence-led operations have been stepped up. Authorities have also increased the number of arrests of suspected militants and their associates, authorities said.

The new clashes along the nearly 2,600-kilometer border have thrown into doubt a fragile ceasefire that was established after deadly fighting last October, with fears that a further deterioration could have a major impact on regional stability.