ISLAMABAD: The Afghan Taliban opened unprovoked fire along the Pakistan–Afghanistan border in Khyber district, prompting an immediate response from security forces. The exchange began in the Torkham and Tirah sub-sectors. The prime minister’s spokesperson for foreign media shared this development late Tuesday night.
Mosharraf Zaidi said firing originated from the Afghan side, adding that Pakistani forces “responded immediately and effectively.” He noted that troops contained the situation quickly, bringing the confrontation under control and halting what he described as Taliban aggression.
Warning issued after swift military response
However, officials warned that any further provocation would draw a strong and decisive reaction. The spokesperson reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to protecting citizens and defending territorial integrity.
The clash came days after Pakistan’s security forces reported killing more than 80 militants in intelligence-based airstrikes along the border. On February 22, authorities said they struck seven camps linked to Fitna al-Khawarij, a term used for the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan. Security sources claimed the strikes targeted hideouts in Nangarhar, Paktika and Khost following recent suicide attacks inside Pakistan.
Tensions persist despite diplomatic engagement
Meanwhile, Islamabad and Kabul remain locked in strained ties amid rising cross-border violence. Pakistan has repeatedly urged Afghan authorities to curb militant groups allegedly operating from Afghan territory, but officials say concerns remain unaddressed.
Militancy in Pakistan has intensified since the Afghan Taliban’s return to power in 2021. Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces are the major victims of Afghanistan’s terrorism.
