The conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan has intensified following airstrikes and border clashes. Afghan troops attacked Pakistani border posts in retaliation for Pakistan’s airstrikes on Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) hideouts in Afghanistan. Pakistan responded with bombings in multiple Afghan provinces, resulting in casualties on both sides.
Official sources reported that 274 Taliban members were killed, 400 injured, and 73 Afghan posts destroyed along the border. The Defence Minister of Pakistan described the situation as an “open war” between the two nations. Previous military clashes in 2025 ended in a ceasefire, but peace negotiations have not been successful.
Pakistan’s air force targeted Taliban military sites in Kabul, reflecting their firm stance against the TTP’s presence in Afghanistan. The report highlighted Pakistan’s potential use of border controls and economic measures to pressure the Taliban. By repatriating Afghan refugees and imposing tariffs, Pakistan aims to increase economic strain on the Taliban.
Despite offers from Saudi Arabia and Qatar to mediate a ceasefire, the report noted a lack of significant efforts from third countries to facilitate peace talks. The ongoing conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan appears to have limited prospects for a lasting resolution, with previous mediation attempts yielding little success.
