Pakistan-Afghanistan Clashes Escalate, Threatening Regional Stability

Tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan have escalated with the exchange of deadly gunfire, stoking fears of a wider conflict. The Taliban accused Pakistan of conducting an 'unprecedented, violent and reprehensible' attack on targets in Kabul and Paktika, while Pakistan blamed Afghanistan for harboring militants. The violence coincided with a historic trip by Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to Pakistan's rival India, triggering concern in Islamabad. The international community, including China, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, has called for de-escalation, with US President Donald Trump offering to broker peace. The recent attacks could signal a new era of instability for the neighbors, who have maintained steady and strategic relations despite frequent skirmishes along their disputed border.

Border crossings between Pakistan and Afghanistan have been closed for four days due to clashes between the two countries. The clashes started on Saturday when Afghan forces struck Pakistani military posts, resulting in the deaths of 23 Pakistani soldiers and over 200 'Taliban and affiliated terrorists' according to Pakistan's military. Afghan officials claimed to have killed 58 Pakistani soldiers. The fighting continued on Tuesday, with both sides trading fire in the northwestern border region. The closures have resulted in hundreds of lorries lining the access roads, waiting for bilateral trade to resume. The escalation came after the Taliban government accused Pakistan of carrying out airstrikes in Kabul, which Pakistan has not acknowledged.

China has expressed concern over deadly clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan, urging both countries to exercise calm and restraint. The clashes, which occurred along their shared border, have raised fears of regional instability and potential threats to Chinese personnel and projects in the area. China's foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian called for de-escalation and dialogue to resolve the conflict, while also offering China's assistance in improving bilateral ties between Pakistan and Afghanistan.