Afghanistan’s Taliban-led government has confirmed cooperation with Tajikistan to investigate a deadly border incident. The clash occurred earlier this week along the shared frontier. Five people were killed during the violence. Two of the dead were Tajik border guards. Officials on both sides say the investigation is ongoing and coordinated.
Joint Investigation Launched After Border Violence
Tajikistan announced that three members of what it described as a “terrorist” group crossed into its territory illegally. The incident happened in Khatlon province. This region lies along the Afghan border. Tajik security forces confronted the group. All three suspects were killed. During the exchange, two Tajik border guards also lost their lives.
Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi addressed the issue at a public event in Kabul. He said Afghanistan had started serious investigations into the incident. He confirmed direct communication with Tajikistan’s foreign minister. According to Muttaqi, both countries are working together to stop similar incidents in the future. He stressed that Afghanistan does not want tensions with its northern neighbour.
Afghan FM Warns of Efforts to Damage Regional Ties
Muttaqi said Afghanistan is concerned about “malicious circles” trying to harm relations between the two countries. He did not name specific groups. However, his comments suggested fears of external or non-state actors. He warned that such actions could undermine regional stability. Afghan officials say maintaining calm borders remains a priority.
The Afghanistan–Tajikistan border stretches for about 1,350 kilometres. Much of it is mountainous and difficult to monitor. Security challenges along this frontier have persisted for years. Relations between Kabul and Dushanbe have remained strained since the Taliban returned to power in 2021. Tajikistan has taken a tougher stance than most Central Asian nations.
Longstanding Tensions and Regional Security Concerns
Tajik President Emomali Rakhmon has openly criticised the Taliban. He has urged Afghan authorities to respect the rights of ethnic Tajiks living in Afghanistan. These concerns have shaped Tajikistan’s cautious approach. Security worries have also increased following recent attacks near the Afghan border.
Tajik authorities reported that at least five Chinese nationals were killed in two separate attacks in late November and early December. Several others were injured. These incidents heightened fears of militant activity in the region. A United Nations report released in December added to these concerns. It stated that Jamaat Ansarullah has fighters spread across Afghanistan. The group reportedly aims to destabilise Tajikistan.
Dushanbe is also alarmed by the presence of Daesh in Khorasan. Tajik officials see these groups as direct threats. Afghanistan, meanwhile, insists it does not allow its territory to be used against neighbours. Both sides say dialogue and cooperation are essential to prevent future violence.
