Afghanistan–Pakistan border tensions escalate into armed clashes

In October 2025, tensions along the Afghanistan–Pakistan border escalated into intense armed clashes, marking one of the deadliest confrontations between the two countries in recent years. The conflict reportedly began on the night of October 11–12, when Afghan forces launched retaliatory strikes in response to alleged violations of Afghan territory by Pakistani forces. Both sides engaged in heavy artillery shelling and small-arms fire, resulting in significant casualties. Afghan officials claimed that dozens of Pakistani soldiers were killed, while Pakistan acknowledged several military casualties and stated that they had neutralized a large number of militants linked to Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The fighting disrupted civilian life along the border, forcing the temporary closure of border crossings, halting trade, and causing displacement among local communities. Following international concern and urgent diplomatic interventions, a 48-hour ceasefire was implemented on October 15, but mutual distrust between the two countries remains high. Islamabad accuses Kabul of providing safe havens to Taliban-affiliated militants who target Pakistan, while Kabul denies these allegations and condemns Pakistan for carrying out aggressive strikes on Afghan soil. Analysts warn that unless both sides engage in sustained dialogue, these border tensions could escalate further, threatening regional stability and the fragile security situation in both countries.