More than 12 civilians were killed in new clashes between Afghan and Pakistani forces on Wednesday, Taliban representatives reported, quoted by “Reuters“, reports News.bg.
The conflict erupted after Islamabad insisted that the Taliban administration take measures against militants carrying out attacks on Pakistani territory, which Pakistan says are using safe havens in Afghanistan. The Taliban categorically deny such a presence.
“Early this morning, Pakistani forces launched attacks… "more than 12 civilians were killed and over 100 others were injured," Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said on the X platform.
The Taliban said they had killed "many Pakistani soldiers", captured posts and military centers, seized weapons and equipment, and "destroyed" some military facilities.
Pakistan blamed the Taliban for the attack. The regional administrator of Chaman district, Habib Ullah Bangulzai, confirmed to Reuters that Taliban forces had attacked a Pakistani border post, with fighting lasting about five hours. He said Pakistani forces had "repulsed the attack" and that four civilians were injured on their territory.
Escalation and international response
While clashes frequently erupt along the 2,600-kilometer border between Afghanistan and Pakistan, this fighting is the heaviest since the Taliban seized power in Kabul in 2021. Following the incident, several border crossings were closed, blocking dozens of cargo trucks and halting trade.
Pakistan is among the main sources of food and goods for landlocked Afghanistan, making the border blockade particularly sensitive.
The international community has reacted with concern. China has urged both countries to protect their citizens and investments, Russia has appealed for restraint, and US President Donald Trump has said Washington could mediate to end the conflict.
Political context and regional tensions
The escalation coincided with a visit by the Afghan Taliban's foreign minister, Amir Khan Muttaki, to India, a long-time rival of Pakistan. During the visit, the two countries agreed to restore diplomatic relations: New Delhi plans to reopen its embassy in Kabul, and the Taliban will send diplomats to India.