Sun Oct 12 01:38:15 UTC 2025: **News Article:**
**Afghanistan Claims Heavy Pakistani Casualties Amid Rising Border Tensions**
**KABUL/ISLAMABAD -** Tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan have reached a boiling point following an alleged air strike on Kabul, which the Taliban government has attributed to Islamabad. In a dramatic escalation, the Taliban claims its forces killed 58 Pakistani soldiers and wounded 30 others during overnight border operations in retaliation for the air strike.
Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid announced the alleged casualties, stating that a “significant amount” of Pakistani weaponry was seized. He also reported nine Taliban soldiers killed and nearly a dozen injured in the fighting. Pakistan has yet to officially respond to the Taliban’s claims.
Earlier on Sunday, the Taliban asserted it had captured three Pakistani border posts in Kunar and Helmand provinces during retaliatory attacks. Enayatullah Khwarizmi, spokesperson for the Afghan Ministry of Defence, stated the attacks were a response to Pakistan’s “repeated violations” and air strikes on Afghan territory.
However, Pakistani state media paints a different picture, claiming its forces seized 19 Afghan border posts and reporting heavy casualties among Taliban fighters. Pakistan Television broadcast footage purportedly showing Afghan posts ablaze and Taliban soldiers surrendering. Radio Pakistan further reported the complete destruction of multiple Taliban camps and outposts.
Pakistani Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi condemned the Afghan attacks as “unprovoked” and accused Afghan forces of targeting civilian populations, calling it a “blatant violation of international laws.” He vowed a strong response and stated that no provocation would be tolerated.
The recent escalation follows an air strike in Kabul that the Taliban blames on Pakistan. Islamabad has not claimed responsibility but accuses the Afghan Taliban of harboring Pakistani Taliban fighters who launch attacks within Pakistan.
The escalating conflict has drawn international concern. Iran, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia have all urged restraint and called for dialogue. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized that “stability” between the two countries “contributes to regional stability.” Qatar expressed “deep concern” and urged both sides to “prioritize dialogue and diplomacy.” Saudi Arabia echoed these sentiments, calling for restraint and a commitment to “reducing tensions and maintaining security and stability in the region.”
The situation remains highly volatile, with the potential for further escalation despite international calls for de-escalation and dialogue.
First Piper 