By Khawaja Hamza
Islamabad — Global powers including China, Russia, Iran, and the United Nations have called for restraint and renewed diplomacy after border clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan triggered a sharp mi
litary escalation.
The tensions intensified after the Afghan Taliban regime reportedly launched unprovoked firing along the Pakistan–Afghanistan border, prompting what Pakistani officials described as a strong and decisive response under Operation Ghazab lil-Haq.
Federal Minister for Information Atta Tarar said Pakistani forces killed 133 militants and injured more than 200 in retaliatory strikes inside Afghan territory. He added that multiple Afghan military posts were destroyed, while security sources claimed that several positions were captured during the operation. Tarar also confirmed that two Pakistani soldiers were killed and three injured while defending the country.
Security officials said the Pakistan Air Force carried out targeted strikes in areas including Kandahar, Kabul, and Paktia, claiming destruction of military installations belonging to the Afghan side. They further stated that artillery and drone operations significantly weakened opposing positions.
International Calls for De-escalation
China expressed deep concern over the situation. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Beijing was engaging through its channels and stood ready to play a constructive role in reducing tensions.
Russia urged both countries to immediately halt cross-border attacks and resolve disputes through diplomatic means. Citing the Russian Foreign Ministry, the RIA news agency reported that Moscow would consider offering mediation if requested by both sides.
Iran also offered assistance to facilitate dialogue. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran was prepared to help enhance understanding and cooperation between the two neighbors.
United Nations Monitoring Situation
In Geneva, UN Secretary-General António Guterres is closely monitoring developments. His spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, said the Secretary-General is deeply concerned and stressed that both countries must fulfill their obligations under international law while prioritizing the protection of civilians.
Regional Diplomacy Efforts
Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan held discussions with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar regarding the evolving situation. According to Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry, both sides emphasized the importance of regional peace and stability and agreed to remain in close contact.
Background to the Crisis
The current escalation follows weeks of rising tensions, including recent suicide attacks in Pakistan attributed by Islamabad to Afghanistan-based militant networks.
Pakistani officials have repeatedly accused elements of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) of operating from Afghan territory — allegations denied by the Taliban authorities.
The border clashes mark one of the most serious confrontations between the two countries in recent years, recalling earlier cross-border incidents and military exchanges.
Islamabad has stated it will maintain its current policy toward Afghanistan unless the Taliban government takes action against militant groups operating from its soil. Officials have described the situation as a consequence of what they call cross-border terrorism and repeated violations along the frontier.
As international actors call for restraint, diplomatic observers say the coming days will be critical in determining whether the crisis can be contained through mediation or risks further escalation.
