The fragile relationship between Afghanistan and Pakistan has reached a critical juncture, with fears of escalating violence after the Taliban mobilized troops along the Durand Line in response to deadly airstrikes and rising hostilities.
In a series of artillery attacks on Pakistani military positions, the Afghan Taliban claimed responsibility for destroying multiple checkpoints. This offensive marks a significant escalation in an already volatile standoff, as battalions of Taliban fighters fortify positions in preparation for potential retaliation from Islamabad.
The strikes, described by Taliban officials as retaliation, followed recent Pakistani airstrikes targeting the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in eastern Afghanistan. Afghan sources reported that the airstrikes claimed the lives of 46 civilians, including women and children, sparking outrage in Kabul.
“We will not forget Pakistan’s aggression on Afghan soil today,” cautioned Taliban foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. A senior Taliban official accused Pakistan of violating Afghanistan’s sovereignty, declaring, “We didn’t expel NATO to be humiliated by Punjabis.”
The Afghan Ministry of Defence has placed troops on high alert, reinforcing positions along the border and signaling readiness for prolonged conflict. Despite Pakistan’s status as a nuclear power, Taliban leaders remain confident in their ability to confront further escalation.
This heightened tension comes amid Pakistan’s struggles with a resurgent TTP, a militant group emboldened by the Taliban’s return to power in 2021. Allegedly armed with U.S. weapons left behind during the withdrawal, the TTP has intensified attacks on Pakistani soil, exacerbating Islamabad’s security challenges.
Ironically, Pakistan’s earlier support for the Afghan Taliban during the U.S.-led war in Afghanistan, aimed at gaining strategic leverage, has now backfired. The Taliban’s resurgence has instead fueled internal insurgency and strained bilateral relations.
The escalating conflict has drawn international concern, with Russia urging both sides to exercise restraint. Analysts warn that the crisis could destabilize the region further, given the proximity of other global players with vested interests.
As the Taliban continues deploying forces along the Durand Line and Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of harboring militants, the situation remains precarious. Both nations appear braced for further conflict, with little indication of diplomatic resolution.
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