The Afghan Taliban claimed responsibility for deadly cross-border attacks that killed 58 Pakistani troops, calling the action retaliation for an alleged Pakistani airstrike on a civilian market in Paktika province.
Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said the strikes targeted multiple border locations and also left 30 Pakistani personnel wounded. Nine Taliban fighters were killed, and around 18 others were injured.
Tensions spiked last week after blasts in Kabul and Pakistan’s alleged bombing inside Afghan territory. Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of harbouring Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan militants, a charge the Taliban denies.
Both nations reportedly used artillery and small arms in the Kunar-Kurram region. Key border crossings at Torkham and Chaman are now shut, stranding hundreds of trucks.
Regional players including Saudi Arabia and Qatar have urged both countries to exercise restraint and resolve tensions through dialogue.
