Pakistan Gains Control of 19 Afghan Border Posts After Clashes

Pakistani security forces have successfully seized control of 19 Afghan border posts following a robust counteroffensive on October 7, 2023. This action came in response to unprovoked shelling and firing initiated by the Afghan Taliban, which escalated tensions along the border. Security sources confirmed that the operation began overnight after several sectors were targeted by heavy gunfire from Afghanistan.

The captured posts were reportedly being used to launch attacks against Pakistani positions. According to security officials, Afghan forces sustained significant casualties during the counterattack, with many posts destroyed and abandoned. Eyewitness accounts indicate that most Afghan soldiers and Taliban fighters fled the scene, leaving behind damaged equipment and bodies.

The Pakistani operation involved a comprehensive military response that included artillery, tanks, and various types of weaponry. Air and drone strikes targeted hideouts of the Khawarij, a term used for certain militant groups, as well as affiliates of ISIS located near the border.

Afghan Forces Request Halt to Counterattack

The intensity of Pakistan’s military response reportedly demoralized Afghan forces, prompting them to request a cessation of hostilities. Following the heavy losses incurred, multiple Afghan posts were left deserted as troops withdrew in panic. Security sources noted that the lack of effective cover fire from Afghan forces contributed to their difficulties during the engagement.

This significant military operation marks a pivotal moment for Pakistan’s border forces, demonstrating their readiness to respond to threats. The situation along the border remains precarious, with ongoing security concerns.

International Reactions to Rising Tensions

In the wake of the clashes, Saudi Arabia expressed deep concern regarding the escalating tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan. The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement urging both nations to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to de-escalate the situation. The Kingdom reaffirmed its commitment to supporting regional peace and stability, emphasizing the need for cooperation between the two countries.

Qatar also voiced its concerns about the conflict, urging both sides to resolve their differences through diplomatic channels. The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted the importance of reducing tensions to maintain regional security and stability. Qatar reiterated its commitment to fostering lasting peace and prosperity for the people of both Pakistan and Afghanistan.

As the situation develops, the implications of these border clashes will likely resonate throughout the region, affecting not only the two nations involved but also their international relationships. The ongoing military engagement underscores the volatile nature of the border and the necessity for diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation.