Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have escalated sharply following a deadly border clash late Saturday night. According to Afghanistan’s Defence Ministry, at least 58 Pakistani soldiers were killed after intense fighting broke out along the Durand Line near Spin Boldak and Chaman. The incident has created war-like conditions between the two neighbouring countries, with both sides deploying troops and heavy artillery along the frontier.

The Incident

Reports suggest that Pakistani troops allegedly fired first near the border, prompting a strong retaliation from Afghan forces. The exchange of gunfire, rockets, and mortar shells lasted for several hours. Several border posts were reportedly damaged, and dozens of civilians fled from nearby villages as the clash intensified. Local residents described the night as filled with explosions and gunfire.

Afghanistan’s Statement

Afghanistan’s Defence Minister, Mawlawi Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid, confirmed the clashes and stated that the Afghan Army is fully prepared to defend the nation’s borders. He warned that any aggression from Pakistan would be met with a strong response. Mujahid said Afghanistan does not seek war but will not allow any violation of its sovereignty. The Afghan Defence Ministry also claimed to have destroyed multiple Pakistani military vehicles during the attack.

Pakistan’s Response

Pakistan’s Foreign Office acknowledged the clash but denied the casualty figures shared by Kabul. Islamabad accused Afghan authorities of allowing militants, particularly from the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), to operate from Afghan soil and attack Pakistani forces. Pakistan said it remains committed to peace but will protect its borders and national security if provoked.

The Durand Line Dispute

The conflict took place along the Durand Line, a 2,640-kilometre border established in 1893 by British officials. The line divides Pashtun tribal regions between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Afghanistan has never officially recognized this border, leading to decades of tension. Smuggling, illegal crossings, and militant activity in the region have made it one of the most volatile frontiers in South Asia.

History of Tensions

Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have been uneasy for decades. After the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 2021, Pakistan hoped for friendlier relations. However, ties deteriorated when TTP attacks on Pakistani forces increased. Pakistan accuses the Taliban government of sheltering TTP fighters, while Kabul denies the allegations, blaming Pakistan for border fence expansion and airstrikes inside Afghan territory.

Global Reactions

The United Nations and several international powers, including China, Iran, and Russia, have urged both sides to exercise restraint. India is closely monitoring the situation, given its strategic interests in the region. Experts warn that any escalation could destabilize the region further, affecting counter-terrorism efforts and humanitarian conditions.

Civilian Impact

Civilians on both sides of the border have suffered the most. Villages near Chaman and Spin Boldak reported heavy shelling, forcing families to flee. Markets, schools, and trade checkpoints have been closed. Border trade, vital for both countries, has been suspended. Hospitals in both regions are treating dozens of injured civilians, including women and children.

Military Buildup

Both Pakistan and Afghanistan have moved additional troops and heavy weapons to the border. Tanks, artillery, and armored vehicles have been spotted heading toward conflict areas. Pakistani media reported that the military has been placed on high alert, while the Afghan side has reinforced checkpoints and ordered troops to remain vigilant. Sporadic firing was still reported on Sunday, but no new large-scale clashes occurred.

Calls for Peace

Tribal elders and religious leaders from both sides are calling for calm. They urged governments to prioritize dialogue over war, emphasizing that Pashtun families live on both sides of the border and will face severe consequences if fighting continues. Peace organizations have suggested mediation through the United Nations or the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

Analysts’ View

Defence experts believe the current clash reflects deep-rooted mistrust between the two countries. Pakistani analysts argue that Islamabad feels betrayed by the Taliban regime it once supported. Afghan observers say Pakistan’s border fencing in disputed areas provoked anger in Kabul. Many experts fear that without dialogue, such skirmishes could become more frequent, destabilizing the already fragile region.

Key Reasons Behind the Clash

– Disagreement over border demarcation along the Durand Line.
– Cross-border militant attacks by TTP insurgents.
– Border fence expansion by Pakistan.
– Historic political distrust and blame games.
– Smuggling routes and illegal crossings causing repeated conflicts.

Humanitarian Concerns

Humanitarian groups warn that the fighting could lead to a refugee crisis. Thousands of Afghans already live in camps inside Pakistan, and new clashes could displace many more. Local authorities have begun setting up relief centers for people fleeing border areas. Aid agencies have called for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further civilian suffering.

Current Situation

As of Sunday night, both sides have maintained a tense silence. Border crossings remain closed for trade and civilian movement. Residents in nearby towns are uncertain about safety as both armies remain deployed. The Pakistani military has not confirmed the reported death toll but acknowledged significant losses in the battle. Afghan media outlets continue to claim victory, stating that the situation is now under control.

Regional Implications

The clash comes at a time when both Pakistan and Afghanistan are dealing with internal instability. Pakistan is struggling with economic challenges and militant attacks, while Afghanistan faces international isolation and economic collapse. A prolonged border conflict could worsen both nations’ domestic crises and impact peace efforts in South Asia.