Multiple explosions and gunfire were heard in Kabul on Tuesday evening, continuing the border clash between Afghan and Pakistani troops. These incidents occurred alongside anti-aircraft weapons fire across the city. The Afghan defence ministry confirmed that fighting against Pakistani forces remained ongoing.
At the same time, an AFP journalist based in Jalalabad reported hearing explosions and heavy weaponry firing. This region is sandwiched between Kabul and their shared frontier.
Residents near the border crossing at Torkham told AFP that the days-long conflict was still intensifying. The clashes had begun on Thursday when Afghanistan launched a border offensive in response to Pakistani air strikes.
The fighting has now spread to multiple Afghan provinces, including southern Kandahar province as well as neighboring Zabul, according to provincial information department officials.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Foreign Office claimed that its February air strikes were targeting terrorists. However, the Afghan government denies these accusations, arguing that they have been ineffective in addressing terrorist groups operating within their territory, which the Taliban government has firmly denied.
Reports indicate three children were killed last Monday in Kunar province as a result of this border dispute. The Afghan deputy government spokesman, Hamdullah Fitrat, confirmed this tragedy.
In addition to the casualties, the ongoing conflict has also caused disruption and fear among civilians living along the border regions. The situation highlights the complexities surrounding terrorism and cross-border security concerns.