International News: Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday strongly condemned attacks by Afghanistan and promised a firm response. The strikes reportedly killed at least 58 Pakistani soldiers. The Taliban government’s spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, said that Afghan forces had taken tenancy of 25 Pakistani unwashed posts and that 30 soldiers were injured. Nine Taliban fighters moreover lost their lives. Afghan officials said the attacks were in retaliation for repeated violations of their land and airspace.
Strong message from Pakistan
"There will be no compromise on Pakistan's defence, and every provocation will be met with a strong and constructive response," AFP quoted Prime Minister Sharif as saying. He accused the Taliban government in Afghanistan of permitting their territory to be used by "terrorist elements." Although Afghanistan reported at least 58 Pakistani soldiers dead, Islamabad has not yet confirmed the figure.
Rising tensions
The clashes come shortly without Afghan officials accused Pakistan of bombing both Kabul and a marketplace in eastern Afghanistan, which Pakistan denied. During a Sunday printing rundown in Kabul, Mujahid stated that all official confines and informal lines in Afghanistan are under well-constructed control, and most illegal activities have been stopped.
Afghan defence readiness
The Taliban government’s defense ministry warned that if Pakistan then violates Afghan territory, its forces are ready to defend the nation and requite a strong response.
Border closures
The Torkham verge crossing, one of two main trade routes between Pakistan and Afghanistan, was initially closed. Later on Sunday, Pakistan reportedly shut all verge crossings with Afghanistan, equal to Reuters citing Pakistani officials. The two countries share a 2,611-kilometer verge tabbed the Durand Line, which Afghanistan has never officially recognized. Relations between the nations have remained tense since the Taliban returned to power in 2021. Pakistan accuses Afghan authorities of sheltering militants who wade its territory, a requirement Kabul denies.
