Tensions Escalate: Heavy Fire Along Pakistan-Afghanistan Border

Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan surged as heavy gunfire was exchanged along their border, following unsuccessful peace talks last weekend. Both nations blamed each other for starting the conflict, amidst allegations of attacks by Afghan-based militants in Pakistan. The incident follows deadly clashes in October.

Intensifying hostilities emerged between Pakistan and Afghanistan late Friday as the two nations exchanged heavy gunfire across their shared border. Both sides have reported heightened tensions following the failure of peace talks the previous weekend.

No casualties have been reported yet. Afghan Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid accused Pakistani forces of launching attacks in the Spin Boldak district, located in Kandahar province. Conversely, the spokesman for Pakistan's prime minister accused Afghan forces of unprovoked actions along the Chaman border, asserting Pakistan's commitment to its territorial integrity and citizens' safety.

The violent exchange occurred nearly a week after recent peace talks in Saudi Arabia failed to yield significant progress, although participants agreed to maintain a fragile ceasefire. Amidst allegations of Afghan-based militants targeting Pakistan, tensions remain high, especially following deadly clashes in October, marking the most severe border conflict since the Taliban assumed power in Afghanistan in 2021.

(With inputs from agencies.)