RAWALPINDI: In a major escalation along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, at least 23 Pakistani soldiers have embraced martyrdom while over 200 Taliban and affiliated militants have been neutralized,
According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). The clashes erupted after unprovoked cross-border attacks were launched by Afghan Taliban fighters, backed reportedly by pro-India Khawarij elements. The ISPR clarified that the aggressors’ objectives were to destabilize Pakistan’s frontier regions and advance terrorist agendas.
In response, the Pakistan Army initiated a decisive counter-offensive, targeting militant hideouts, camps, and outposts across the border. As part of this operation, 21 Afghan posts were temporarily captured and key infrastructure used by militants was destroyed.
According to ISPR, the retaliatory strikes caused heavy casualties among Taliban fighters and inflicted major financial and operational losses, effectively disabling several of their operational facilities. At least 29 Pakistani personnel were also injured in the firefight, but the military stressed that extensive precautions were taken to protect civilian populations in the region.
Pak Army Warns of Continued Action Unless Taliban Acts Against Terrorists
The Pakistan Army has issued a stern warning to the Afghan Taliban regime, demanding immediate and verifiable action against terrorist groups operating from Afghan soil. Failing that, Pakistan reserved the right to continue its military operations to safeguard national security.
The military’s statement also condemned the convergence of Taliban elements and Indian support, branding it a joint attempt to foment instability. It cited the recent visit of Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to India as an alarming development, particularly as it coincided with the attacks.
Dozens of Afghan Posts Seized; Militants Surrender
Sources from Pakistani security agencies revealed that 19 Afghan military posts used to facilitate terrorist infiltration were overtaken by Pakistani forces. Among them was the Angoor Adda post, where the Pakistani flag was hoisted after Afghan troops abandoned their positions. Videos have surfaced showing Taliban militants surrendering or fleeing under pressure from Pakistani strikes.
Officials emphasized that this operation does not target the Afghan population, but specifically those involved in cross-border terrorism and their facilitators.
Tribal Communities Vow Support, Take Up Arms Against Terrorists
Local tribal leaders and citizens from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have declared their resolve to support the Pakistan Army in its fight against terrorism. In audio messages circulated online, community leaders in Pashto voiced their intention to defend their homeland and combat militants infiltrating from Afghan territory.
“We have fought these terrorists before and will do so again,” a tribal elder said. “We stand with our forces against those who bring chaos to our land.”
International Concern: Saudi Arabia and Qatar Urge Restraint
The growing conflict has triggered concern from regional players. Saudi Arabia and Qatar have both urged restraint and dialogue following the hostilities along the Pak-Afghan border.
The Saudi Foreign Ministry called for calm, stressing the need for both countries to resolve disputes through diplomacy and wisdom to prevent further deterioration of regional stability.
Pakistan has reiterated its commitment to regional peace, but made it clear that no compromise will be made on sovereignty or national security. The armed forces remain vigilant and ready to respond to any further provocations.
