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Tensions are rising sharply between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Pakistan recently fired mortars across the border near Kandahar. This attack targeted civilian areas. Meanwhile, the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) ambushed Pakistani Army convoys. These events happen just as new peace talks are set to begin in Istanbul. The border is heating up, and the future of regional peace hangs in the balance.
Pakistan Attacks Afghan Border Areas
Pakistan recently launched mortar attacks and fired guns into Afghanistan. This happened in areas near Kandahar, specifically around the Spin Boldak-Chaman border crossing. Reports from Afghan media, including Tolo News, confirmed these attacks. Pakistani forces used both light and heavy weapons. They targeted Afghan border positions and fired shells into civilian areas.
Videos of the shelling have appeared online. The attacks took place in the late afternoon. Afghan officials stated no one was injured on their side. Afghanistan's Taliban government chose not to strike back immediately. They said they want to respect the spirit of ongoing peace talks.
This act by Pakistan sends a strong message. It shows military power just before diplomatic discussions.
TTP Launches Attacks Inside Pakistan
Before Pakistan fired into Afghanistan, the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) launched several major attacks within Pakistan. These ambushes targeted Pakistani security forces. Pakistani mainstream media has not widely reported these events. This often happens due to strict military control over information. However, open sources and some local media outlets have shown details.
The TTP's actions were intense over the last 24 hours. They attacked in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, specifically in the Bannu and Orakzai districts.
TTP Captures and Destroys Checkpoint
In the Orakzai district, TTP fighters took over a Pakistani Army checkpoint. After soldiers ran away, the TTP placed explosives and blew up the post. This shows the group's ability to challenge army control.
Ambush in Bannu District
The Bannu district saw a major ambush. TTP fighters attacked Pakistani security forces in a fierce gun battle. Reports say at least eight people were injured, but the actual number may be higher. The TTP even seized ambulances and used them in their attacks. They also claimed to have shot down a Pakistani military drone.
These TTP attacks show a clear increase in their activity. This suggests the TTP is becoming more aggressive. These actions might have provoked Pakistan's later firing into Afghanistan.
Peace Talks in Istanbul Face Challenges
Amid these escalating border clashes, Pakistan and Afghanistan are starting Round Three of Peace Talks in Istanbul. Previous talks happened in Doha, Qatar, and an earlier round in Istanbul. However, the timing of the recent violence raises serious concerns about these new discussions. The talks appear to be failing before they even truly start.
High-Level Delegates
Both sides are sending top intelligence officials to lead their teams. Pakistan's delegation is led by Asim Munir Malik, the Chief of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). The Taliban's team is led by Abdul Haq Wasiq, their Intelligence Chief.
Having intelligence chiefs at the table means both sides know a lot about each other. It also means they are ready for tough talks.
Strategic Messaging Through Violence
The attacks happened just hours before the talks. This timing is not a coincidence. It is a way for both sides to send a message. They want to show their strength.
- Pakistan's Attacks: By firing across the border, Pakistan wants to show its military power. It aims to demonstrate its ability to strike.
- TTP's Ambush: The TTP's attacks might be a way for Afghanistan to show what could happen if cooperation fails. It suggests Pakistan will face ongoing internal conflicts without a peace deal.
This "pre-talks violence" is a way to gain an advantage in negotiations. It highlights a deep lack of trust between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Low Expectations for Talks
Reporters in Istanbul say expectations for these talks are low. The best possible outcome might just be extending the current ceasefire. Mediators like Qatar and Turkey hope to keep the talks going. They want to prevent a complete breakdown in communication. This might help calm tensions over time.
However, the demands from both sides are very difficult to meet.
- Pakistan's Demands: Pakistan wants Afghanistan to act against the TTP.
- Afghanistan's Demands: Afghanistan wants Pakistan to promise it will not attack again. They also want Pakistan to stop supporting American drone operations over Afghan airspace. Afghanistan sees this as an invasion of its sovereignty.
These opposing demands make a lasting deal hard to reach.
Understanding the Deeper Conflict
The border conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan is complex. It involves:
- Cross-Border Strikes: Pakistan's actions on the border.
- TTP Insurgency: The TTP's ongoing fight against Pakistan's army.
- Ceasefire Violations: Both sides breaking agreements to stop fighting.
- Regional Diplomacy: Efforts to find a peaceful solution through talks.
These factors shape security in South Asia. The current events in 2025 show how fragile peace is along the Durand Line. This border region remains a flashpoint for conflict. Both Pakistan's security plans and the TTP's continued attacks have a major impact on how Afghanistan and Pakistan get along.
Conclusion: A Fragile Path Forward
The situation at the Pakistan-Afghanistan border is very unstable. Pakistan's border shelling and the TTP's ambushes show a deep level of distrust and ongoing conflict. The Istanbul talks, meant to bring peace, are starting under a cloud of violence. Both nations appear to be using these actions to project power rather than seek immediate compromise.
The coming days will show if diplomacy can overcome these challenges. For now, the future of the region remains uncertain. The hope is that the ceasefire talks can at least prevent further escalation, even if a full resolution seems far off.
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