ISLAMABAD: The recent clash near the Chaman border highlights persistent mistrust between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Both sides exchanged heavy fire on Friday night, signalling deepening volatility. Officials from both countries accused each other of initiating the confrontation.
Pakistani officials insisted Afghan forces fired mortar shells toward the Badani sector. They argued that the shelling endangered civilians living close to the frontier belt. They also claimed that Pakistani units responded immediately to counter Afghan aggression.
These statements reflect Pakistan’s continued concern over security threats along the Durand Line. However, Afghan spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid strongly rejected Pakistan’s narrative. He accused Pakistani forces of launching an unprovoked assault on Spin Boldak. He stated that Afghan border units returned fire only after detecting hostile action.
His remarks underscored Kabul’s position that Pakistan provoked the exchange. This dispute shows how rapidly routine tensions can escalate into direct clashes.
Conflicting Battlefield Claims Deepen Uncertainty
Reports suggested possible fighting along the Chaman-Kandahar highway during the same period. These claims remained unverified due to security restrictions around the affected zone. Security sources indicated that troops on both sides heightened readiness.
They reported observing bursts of automatic gunfire near several crossing points. These observations point to a wider pattern of instability across key transit routes. Such uncertainty complicates efforts to evaluate the actual scale of the confrontation.
Human Impact Adds Urgency to Diplomatic Response
A senior Quetta official confirmed the exchange of fire while requesting anonymity. He said the clash began around 10pm and continued for several hours. His account reinforced concerns about recurring violence along this critical border.
Medical superintendent Muhammad Owais reported three injured civilians brought for treatment. He stated that the injured included one woman from the nearby border zone. He confirmed that medical teams stabilized all victims after emergency procedures. These casualties highlight the human cost of frequent cross-border skirmishes.
Silence from Key Institutions Fuels Speculation
There was no statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations by late night. The Foreign Office also issued no immediate comment on the situation. This silence may reflect ongoing attempts to gather verified intelligence.
Federal officials continued tracking developments while assessing potential diplomatic consequences.
Their response will shape how both countries interpret the latest escalation.
