A significant escalation in tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan has resulted in the deaths of 12 Pakistani soldiers following a large-scale Taliban offensive along the Durand Line. This violent confrontation is reported to be a direct response to recent Pakistani airstrikes targeting Taliban officials within Afghanistan. Afghan forces claim to have captured several outposts in the process.
The border clash, which occurred on Saturday, has heightened existing friction between the two neighboring countries. The incident follows Pakistan’s airstrikes on October 9th, which aimed at eliminating Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) leaders, including their chief Noor Wali Mehsud, in Afghanistan’s eastern provinces. In apparent retaliation, Afghan forces launched counterattacks, reportedly destroying Pakistani military facilities and equipment in Nangarhar and Kunar provinces, with significant casualties claimed on the Pakistani side.
Afghan military sources stated that their forces are engaged in ‘heavy clashes’ in response to Pakistan’s airstrikes on Kabul. A Taliban defense ministry spokesperson confirmed the ‘successful’ operations concluded at midnight, issuing a stern warning of firm retaliation should Afghanistan’s territory be violated again. This marks one of the most severe escalations since the Taliban regained power in 2021, highlighting the persistent volatility along the Durand Line.
Adding another layer to regional dynamics, the violence unfolds while Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, is on an eight-day visit to India. His reception in Deoband, India, was notably warm, with religious leaders and students welcoming him. Muttaqi expressed gratitude and hopes for advancing India-Afghanistan ties, potentially signaling a diplomatic shift and a reduced reliance on Pakistan. He also spoke of strengthening bilateral relations, encouraging visits, and exploring collaboration on projects like Iran’s Chabahar port, while acknowledging challenges posed by international sanctions. The ongoing border disputes, however, continue to make the Durand Line a critical and volatile point of contention.