Tensions along the Afghanistan–Pakistan border flared anew on Thursday, as Pakistani forces reportedly fired on Afghan positions in Kandahar’s Spin Boldak district. The attack came even as representatives from both countries met in Istanbul for the third round of peace talks.
Afghan officials said the shelling took place twice during the day first in the morning and again in the afternoon jeopardizing the recently renewed ceasefire agreement. Afghan border units, according to local authorities, refrained from returning fire on instructions from senior leadership.
“Our forces remained committed to the ceasefire and did not respond,” said one official, adding that the reason behind Pakistan’s aggression remains uncertain.
Kabul Urges Restraint, Avoids Escalation
The incident was confirmed by the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan’s spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, who added that Afghan troops deliberately did not retaliate in order to avoid civilian casualties and out of respect for the current political process.
“The attack created panic among residents, but we have acted with restraint,” Mujahid said. He also declared that both sides reached a mutual agreement on extending the ceasefire and on adhering to the principle of non-aggression during the negotiations.
International Voices Call for Calm
Former US envoy to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad weighed in on the renewed clashes, warning that such actions could destroy the fragile trust between the two neighbours. Posting on X, Khalilzad said if reports of Pakistan’s attack were confirmed, it would represent a clear violation of the Istanbul agreement.
He called on Islamabad to clarify its actions and warned that “violations like this undermine the very foundation needed for dialogue and peace.” Turkish & Qatari mediators, who have been facilitating the talks, are said to be monitoring the situation closely.
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Talks in Peril as War Rhetoric Intensifies
Ahead of the meeting in Istanbul, Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif hinted that if negotiations break down, there could well be military escalation. “If the negotiations break down, the situation will deteriorate further. We will then be compelled to respond similarly,” he said, when asked if that meant war, adding simply, “Yes only war.”
The renewed border skirmish now threatens to derail a fragile peace process, which was already hanging by a thread. With accusations flying thick and fast between the two countries of harboring militants and violating ceasefire terms, the Istanbul talks-earlier seen as a possible breakthrough-face a serious test of credibility.
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Disclaimer: This article is based on official reports and verified media sources. Details may evolve as new information from both governments emerges.
