Pakistan and Afghanistan Engage in Violent Conflict Over Border Disputes

Countries around the world have issued statements urging restraint in the ongoing conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan’s Taliban government. The situation escalated after explosions were reported in Kabul and fighting continued along the border.

Pakistan has declared war on the Taliban, stating that it has also launched attacks on Kandahar and Paktika within Afghanistan. In response, the Taliban claimed to be carrying out “large-scale offensive operations” against the Pakistani military along the Durand Line.

The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, is monitoring the situation closely and has urged both nations to adhere strictly to their obligations under international law. He emphasized the need for both parties to prioritize the protection of civilians as confrontations continue.

Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, has called on Pakistan and Afghanistan to resolve their differences through dialogue and good neighborly principles. He highlighted the significance of Ramadan as a time for self-restraint and Islamic solidarity.

Russia has urged the warring parties to halt cross-border attacks immediately and resolve their differences through diplomatic means. Russia is also offering to mediate if both sides agree.

Pakistan’s Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, stated that Islamabad had made efforts to keep the situation stable but that patience had reached its limit. He claimed that Pakistan was giving a decisive response to aggression.

Former Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai has expressed his country’s commitment to defending its homeland with unity and courage. He also urged Pakistan to change its policy and adopt a path of good neighborliness, respect, and civilized relations with Afghanistan.

Source: Al Jazeera