Kabul/Islamabad: Tensions escalated once again along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border as overnight clashes erupted between the Pakistani army and Afghan Taliban forces. Heavy gunfire was reported near the Durand Line on Friday night, with both sides accusing each other of initiating the attacks.
According to Afghan media outlet TOLO News, at least four civilians were killed and four others injured in Pakistani shelling in Spin Boldak. The casualties occurred in Pakistan’s Majal Gali and Lukman villages. Among the injured, one man and one woman are reported to be in critical condition.
Breaking the Ceasefire
The Taliban accused Pakistan of launching unprovoked attacks, claiming that civilians were deliberately targeted. A Taliban spokesperson, Mujahid, said in a post, “Unfortunately, Pakistani forces attacked the Spin Boldak district this evening, forcing the Islamic Emirate forces to respond. Pakistan continues to target civilians in Spin Boldak and nearby areas.”
Meanwhile, Pakistan alleged that Afghan forces opened fire without provocation near the Chaman border crossing. Prime Minister’s spokesperson Musharraf Zaidi stated that Pakistan remains on high alert and is committed to safeguarding its territorial integrity and citizens’ safety.
Use of Drones and Rockets
Top security sources cited by CNN-News18 reported that heavy firing at the Badini border subsided later, but clashes continued near the Friendship Gate crossing linking Balochistan to Kandahar. Reports indicate that both sides used drones and small rockets, and movement of artillery was observed along both sides of the Durand Line.
In response, local residents near the border began evacuating the area. While firing reportedly stopped late at night, officials have warned that the situation remains highly tense. The recent clash comes just two days after failed talks between Pakistan and the Taliban in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, which did not result in a ceasefire agreement.
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