In a dramatic escalation along the Afghanistan–Pakistan frontier, the Taliban claimed on Sunday that its forces killed 58 Pakistani soldiers in retaliatory operations near the Durand Line, including in areas around Behrampur.
Officials from the Taliban asserted that the strikes were in response to ongoing violations of Afghan airspace and territorial sovereignty. Under the assault, the militants claimed to have destroyed 20 Pakistani security outposts and captured weaponry and supplies.
The Pakistani military, in contrast, acknowledged losses but gave a lower figure, stating that 23 soldiers were killed. Islamabad described the Taliban’s claims as exaggerated and declared that it had responded strongly to the attacks, destroying several militant positions.
Fierce fighting reportedly continued late into Saturday night. Several border crossings, including the routes between Torkham and Chaman, were closed as a precaution amid heightened military activity.
The border conflict has drawn international concern, with neighbouring Gulf states calling for immediate de-escalation. Analysts warn that this confrontation may worsen regional instability and further strain relations between Kabul and Islamabad.
The Taliban defended its actions as necessary retaliation, citing repeated airstrikes by Pakistan in Kabul and other eastern Afghan cities. Taliban officials warned that any further incursions into Afghan airspace or territory would be met with resolute force.
With both sides issuing conflicting narratives around casualty figures and territorial gains, independent verification remains difficult. The volatile standoff underscores the fragile security dynamics along the Durand Line and deep mistrust between the two nations.
