Afghanistan announced that 58 Pakistani soldiers were killed in overnight operations along the border. The Taliban described the operations as a retaliatory response to repeated violations of the country’s territory and airspace by the Pakistani military. Pakistan, however, reported 23 soldiers killed and 29 wounded.

Border Clashes

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, speaking at a press conference in Kabul, said Afghan forces seized 25 Pakistani posts, killing 58 soldiers and wounding 30 more. He added, “All official and de facto borders of Afghanistan are fully under control, and illegal activities have largely been prevented.”

Taliban, announced early Sunday that Afghan forces had carried out “retaliatory and successful operations” along the border. The ministry warned, “If the other side violates Afghanistan’s territorial integrity again, our armed forces are fully prepared to respond strongly.”

Pakistan’s Response

The Pakistan military said it had neutralized more than 200 Taliban and affiliated militants during the border clashes. The army reported 23 soldiers killed and 29 wounded. Pakistani media reported that many Afghan posts and militant positions were heavily damaged in the counterattacks.

Earlier in the week, Afghan officials accused Pakistan of bombing the capital Kabul and a market in eastern Afghanistan, claims Pakistan denied.

Border Crossings and Security Situation

Overnight clashes led to the closure of major border crossings, including Torkham and Chaman. Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called the incidents “provocations by Afghanistan” and stated, “There will be no compromise on Pakistan’s defense, and every provocation will be met with a strong and effective response.”

Regional Tensions and Context

Tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan have been high in recent months. Islamabad accuses the Afghan government of failing to act against militant groups operating from Afghan territory, while Kabul denies allowing attacks on Pakistan.