Tensions are flaring on the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, with both sides exchanging fire in a dangerous escalation. The Taliban government has admitted to launching 'retaliatory operations' against Pakistani troops, a move that has raised serious concerns about regional stability. But what exactly sparked this conflict?
According to reports, the Taliban's actions were in response to Pakistan's alleged violation of Afghan airspace and a subsequent bombing of a market inside Afghanistan on Thursday. The exact number of casualties remains unclear.
Pakistan's Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, condemned the Afghan attacks as 'unprovoked', accusing the Taliban of targeting civilians. He warned that Pakistan would respond 'with a stone for every brick'. This statement alone highlights the escalating nature of the conflict.
Islamabad has long accused Kabul of harboring terrorists who target Pakistan. The Taliban government denies these claims. Both sides reportedly used small arms and artillery in the Kunar-Kurram region, as reported by the BBC.
Naqvi stated, "The firing by Afghan forces on civilian populations is a blatant violation of international laws." He further added, "Afghanistan is playing a game of fire and blood," in a post on X. A Pakistani military spokesperson confirmed that necessary measures would be taken to protect Pakistani lives and properties.
According to a security source, firing took place at several locations along the border, including Angoor Adda, Bajaur, Kurram, Dir, Chitral, and Baramcha. A police official near the Zero Point in the Kurram district reported heavy weapons fire starting around 10:00 PM local time (5:00 PM GMT).
But here's where it gets controversial: Last week, the Afghan Taliban accused Pakistan of violating its 'sovereign territory' after two loud blasts were heard in Kabul. The Taliban Defence Ministry claimed Pakistan bombed a civilian market in the Paktika province, resulting in the destruction of several shops, according to local reports. A top Pakistani general alleged that Afghanistan is being used as a 'base of operation for terrorism against Pakistan.'
Pakistan has accused the Afghan Taliban of allowing the Pakistan Taliban (TTP) to operate from their land, aiming to enforce a strict Islamic-led system. The Afghan Taliban government has consistently denied these accusations.
This escalation coincides with a historic week-long trip to India by Afghan Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. In a diplomatic move, Delhi announced it would reopen its embassy in Kabul, which was shut down four years ago. Naqvi warned that Afghanistan would receive a 'befitting reply' like India, implying a strong response.
Saudi Arabia, which signed a mutual defense pact with Pakistan last month, called for restraint. Qatar also expressed concern, urging both sides to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy.
What do you think? Is this a localized conflict, or does it have the potential to escalate further? Could external influences be playing a role? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
