Pakistan closed all major border crossings with Afghanistan on Sunday following intense military exchanges that escalated regional tensions. The move comes after Afghan troops reportedly opened fire on Pakistani border posts late Saturday, described by Kabul as retaliation for recent airstrikes in Afghanistan's eastern provinces.
Exchange of Fire Sparks Closure
Pakistani security officials confirmed retaliatory artillery strikes destroyed multiple Afghan border posts, with intermittent gunfire continuing in Kurram district. At least five crossings – including critical trade routes at Torkham and Chaman – remain closed indefinitely, disrupting vital supply chains and civilian movement.
Conflicting Narratives Emerge
While Afghanistan's defense ministry claimed its operations concluded by midnight Sunday, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid asserted "no threat exists on Afghan soil." Islamabad maintains the Taliban administration harbors militants from Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which claimed responsibility for recent attacks targeting Pakistani security forces.
Regional Security Implications
The clashes follow Thursday's airstrikes targeting TTP leadership in Kabul, with unconfirmed reports about the militant leader's status. Analysts warn the 2,600-km porous border remains a flashpoint, given historical tensions and competing counterterrorism strategies between the neighbors.
Local residents near closed crossings reported economic strain, while international observers monitor potential impacts on regional stability. No official casualty figures have been released by either side.
