The conflict between Afghan and Pakistani forces has escalated, leading to deadly clashes in various border areas. Both countries accuse each other of aggression and violation of sovereignty.
Afghan representative Zabihullah Mujahid reported that 58 Pakistani soldiers were killed in "retaliatory" attacks that occurred on Saturday, following explosions in Kabul and Paktika. In response, the Pakistani military acknowledged the loss of 23 of their soldiers but claimed to have killed 200 Taliban and associated "terrorists." The Pakistani Interior Minister described the Afghan attacks as "unprovoked firing."
The Taliban accuse Pakistan of orchestrating terrorist attacks on its territory, while Islamabad has not confirmed these allegations. Tensions between the two countries have risen amid accusations that the Taliban is providing shelter to members of the "Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan" (TTP), which Kabul denies.
What events led to the clashes?
The situation intensified on Saturday when Afghan forces began attacks on border areas of Pakistan. Clashes occurred in places such as Angoor Adda, Bajaur, Kurram, Dir, and Chitral. Reports indicate that Afghan troops killed 58 Pakistani soldiers and captured 25 army posts.
Mujahid stated that Afghan forces control the situation at the border and that illegal activities are largely contained. At the same time, the Pakistani military characterized the actions as "cowardly" and aimed at destabilizing the region.
They also noted that many Taliban positions were destroyed during the clashes and 21 enemy positions were captured on the Afghan side of the border.
Although the main phase of hostilities has ended, periodic exchanges of fire continue in the Kurram area.
What caused the conflict?
On Thursday, two explosions occurred in Kabul, which may have also provoked the escalation. The Taliban accused Pakistan of violating Afghanistan's sovereignty, while Islamabad insisted on the need to stop the activities of Pakistani Taliban.
According to analysts, the deterioration of relations between Pakistan and the Taliban is linked to an increase in TTP attacks on Pakistani forces, as well as intensified airstrikes by Islamabad on suspected Taliban hideouts in Afghanistan.
In the first half of 2023, over 2,400 fatalities were recorded in Pakistan, raising serious concerns about the rise in violence.
What are the views of the parties?
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the recent events, emphasizing that the army provided a worthy response. The Interior Minister described the attacks as "unprovoked" and pointed to the shelling of civilians as a violation of international law.
Afghan authorities, in turn, refer to their actions as retaliatory measures and warn of their readiness to defend their airspace.
What is the international reaction to the conflict?
The escalation of the conflict has raised concerns in the region. The Iranian Foreign Minister called on both sides to show restraint, emphasizing the importance of stability for all of South Asia. Similar calls have come from Qatar and Saudi Arabia, which insist on the necessity of peaceful dialogue.
India, for its part, has not yet commented on the situation, although the attention given to cooperation with the Taliban may affect the situation.
What are the prospects for further escalation?
Analysts believe that both sides want to avoid escalation despite the existing tensions. The likelihood of a significantly large-scale conflict is low, as Afghanistan does not possess comparable military resources. However, the ongoing presence of the TTP in Afghanistan remains a key factor of tension.
Experts argue that dialogue is necessary for conflict resolution, and the parties should seek ways to resolve their differences peacefully.
