KABUL/ISLAMABAD — Tensions between Afghanistan’s Taliban government and Pakistan sharply escalated over the weekend, as Kabul claimed its forces had killed 58 Pakistani soldiers in retaliatory border operations, prompting Islamabad to shut several major border crossings.
According to Afghanistan’s Ministry of Defence, the overnight operations against Pakistani border posts came in response to what Kabul says were repeated airstrikes by Pakistan in Afghan territory earlier in the week. Afghan officials reported that 20 of their own troops were killed or injured amid the clashes, and that 25 Pakistani posts were captured.
Pakistan has not confirmed Kabul’s figure of 58 casualties. While it admits to responding with gunfire and artillery, Islamabad gives lower estimates of its losses and claims Afghan forces suffered casualties and lost several border posts.
The border closures followed: Pakistan shut its main crossings with Afghanistan at Torkham and Chaman, as well as several minor posts, including Kharlachi, Angoor Adda, and Ghulam Khan. The disruption has affected trade and passenger movement between the two countries.
Both sides have traded accusations. Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of harboring militants who launch attacks into Pakistani territory, notably members of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Afghanistan denies allowing such safe havens. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, speaking for Kabul, insisted that Afghanistan will defend its borders and that it “remains resolute” in doing so.
The violence has largely subsided by Sunday morning, though intermittent exchanges of fire were reported in Pakistan’s Kurram region. Meanwhile, calls for de-escalation came from Saudi Arabia and Qatar, both urging restraint and dialogue.
