In a grave escalation of border tensions, Afghan forces launched unprovoked attacks on Pakistani border posts in Upper Kurram, resulting in the martyrdom of a Frontier Constabulary (FC) soldier and injuries to 11 others. Pakistani security forces responded decisively, reportedly inflicting heavy losses on Afghan forces and militants involved in the assault.
Unprovoked Firing Sparks Retaliation
The attack occurred on Saturday morning when Afghan forces targeted border posts in Ghozgarhi, Matha Sangar, Kot Ragha, and Tari Mengal using both light and heavy weapons. In response, Pakistani forces launched a strong retaliatory strike, killing seven to eight Afghan personnel. Afghan troops reportedly abandoned their posts following the exchange.
Infiltration Attempts Thwarted
The border tension began late Friday night when militants attempted to infiltrate Pakistani territory using posts controlled by the Afghan Taliban. Pakistani forces successfully repelled the attempt, killing over 15 militants and wounding several others. The failed infiltration led to joint firing by Afghan forces and militants on Saturday morning.
Sources revealed that the Afghan Taliban have been supporting cross-border militancy instead of controlling it. Pakistani officials have repeatedly expressed concerns about militants using Afghan soil to launch attacks, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.
Pakistan’s Firm Stance on Cross-Border Terrorism
The banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has intensified its activities since ending a ceasefire in November 2022. Pakistan has consistently raised the issue of militant sanctuaries in Afghanistan, with Army Chief Gen Asim Munir emphasizing that there will be no negotiations with the outlawed group.
In recent days, Pakistani fighter jets targeted TTP camps in Afghanistan’s Paktika province, reportedly killing and wounding several militants. The strikes targeted key TTP figures and hideouts in the Murgha and Laman areas of the Bermal district.
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Afghan Retaliation Prompts Concerns
Afghan authorities had warned of retaliation following the airstrikes. On Saturday, Afghanistan’s defense ministry confirmed that Afghan Taliban forces targeted several locations in Pakistan in response to the strikes. This marks a dangerous escalation in border hostilities, raising fears of further conflict in the region.
Heightened Security Measures
Pakistan has maintained that its actions are aimed at neutralizing militant hideouts responsible for cross-border terrorism. Security officials continue to monitor the volatile situation and reinforce border posts to prevent future infiltration attempts.
The ongoing tension underscores the challenges of maintaining peace along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. While Pakistani forces have demonstrated their ability to respond effectively, the rising militancy and Afghan Taliban’s involvement highlight the urgent need for international intervention to address the root causes of cross-border terrorism.
As the region faces mounting security risks, the situation demands diplomatic efforts and a renewed focus on stabilizing the border to ensure peace and safety for both nations.
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