Afghan Taliban Claims 58 Pakistani Troops Killed in Cross-Border Retaliation
The Taliban government of Afghanistan has confirmed launching deadly cross-border attacks against Pakistani troops, calling them a retaliatory response to alleged Pakistani airstrikes inside Afghan territory.
According to spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, at least 58 Pakistani soldiers were killed and around 30 others injured during coordinated strikes in the Kunar–Kurram border region. The clashes involved both small arms and heavy artillery, marking one of the most serious military escalations between the two countries in recent years.
Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi condemned the Taliban’s actions, calling them “unprovoked” and accusing Afghan forces of targeting civilians. He warned that Pakistan would respond “with a stone for every brick.”
Airspace Violations Spark Fresh Tensions
The confrontation began after the Taliban accused Pakistan of violating Afghan airspace and bombing a local market in the Paktika province. Eyewitnesses reported several shops destroyed and civilian casualties.
Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, speaking in New Delhi, said that Afghanistan had “no issues with Pakistan’s people or leadership,” but claimed that “certain groups in Pakistan are trying to spoil the situation.” He emphasized that Afghanistan had the right to defend its borders against any aggression.
Regional and International Reactions
The conflict has raised concerns across the region.
Saudi Arabia, which recently signed a defense pact with Pakistan, urged both nations to show “self-restraint and avoid escalation.”
Qatar also called for dialogue and diplomacy to prevent the situation from spiraling out of control.
Despite growing international pressure, both sides remain defiant. Pakistani officials warned that “Afghanistan will be given a befitting reply, just like India.”
Background: Rising Border Tensions Since 2021
Border clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan have occurred repeatedly since the Taliban returned to power in 2021. Islamabad accuses Kabul of sheltering Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants who launch attacks from Afghan soil. The Taliban government denies this, claiming it does not allow anti-Pakistan groups to operate within its borders.
The timing of the latest attacks coincides with Muttaqi’s visit to India, reflecting a shifting diplomatic landscape. New Delhi has recently announced plans to reopen its embassy in Kabul, signaling cautious engagement with the Taliban regime.
Analysts Warn of Broader Instability
Experts warn that continued military exchanges could destabilize South Asia, threatening peace, trade, and humanitarian efforts on both sides of the Durand Line.
Both nations are now under pressure to de-escalate before the conflict expands further.
