Afghanistan and Pakistan forces exchanged heavy fire late Friday night, marking another flashpoint in their increasingly strained relationship. The clash erupted along the Spin Boldak–Chaman border just days after peace talks in Saudi Arabia failed to produce any breakthrough.
Both sides accused each other of firing first. Afghan Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said Pakistani forces “launched attacks” towards Spin Boldak, forcing Afghan troops to retaliate. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s PM Office claimed Afghan forces carried out “unprovoked firing”, insisting Islamabad remains committed to protecting its territory. Residents reported that the firing began around 10:30pm and lasted nearly two hours, with Afghan officials stating that Pakistani artillery and mortars struck civilian homes. No casualties have been confirmed yet, and firing has since stopped.
Relations between the two neighbours have sharply deteriorated since the Taliban’s return in 2021. Pakistan accuses Kabul of sheltering the TTP, which continues to carry out attacks inside Pakistan including a recent roadside bombing that killed three police officers. Islamabad also alleges Afghan support for BLA and ISKP, claims Kabul denies. The latest exchange comes despite a fragile ceasefire agreed in October after deadly border battles. With recent talks failing, tensions remain dangerously high.
