Taliban Accuses Pakistan Army of Provoking Border Tensions
The already strained relations between Afghanistan’s Taliban government and Pakistan worsened this week as the Taliban openly accused “certain military elements” within the Pakistan Army of deliberately escalating tensions along the volatile border. The allegations follow a surge in cross-border clashes and a war of words, threatening regional stability.
Taliban’s Strong Accusations Against Pakistan
Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid claimed that “rogue elements” within the Pakistani military were behind recent provocations, including shelling and incursions into Afghan territory. While stopping short of directly blaming the Pakistani government, Mujahid asserted these actions aimed to undermine the Taliban’s authority and disrupt neighborly relations.
“We have repeatedly urged Pakistan to address these provocations, but certain military factions continue to violate our sovereignty,” Mujahid said. “This is not the behavior of a neighbor seeking peace.”
The accusations mark a sharp escalation in rhetoric, reflecting the Taliban’s frustration with Pakistan’s border security stance and alleged support for anti-Taliban militants.
Pakistan Denies Allegations, Blames Taliban
Pakistan dismissed the Taliban’s claims as “baseless and inflammatory.” A senior Pakistani security official, speaking anonymously, suggested the Taliban was deflecting blame for its failure to curb Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a militant group increasingly active in Pakistan since the Taliban’s 2021 takeover.
“Pakistan has always respected Afghanistan’s sovereignty,” the official said. “The real issue is the Taliban’s inability—or unwillingness—to rein in terrorists using Afghan soil.”
Border Violence Escalates
Tensions have spiked along the disputed Durand Line, with reports of cross-border shelling, armed skirmishes, and drone strikes. Local communities on both sides report casualties and displacement, deepening resentment.
Analysts warn the situation mirrors pre-9/11 tensions, when Pakistan and Afghanistan’s Taliban regime engaged in proxy conflicts.
“The Taliban’s public accusations against the Pakistan Army are unprecedented,” said Kabul-based analyst Omar Nasiri. “This suggests a breakdown in backchannel talks and hardening stances.”
Regional Stability at Risk
The rift could destabilize South Asia. Once a key Taliban backer, Pakistan now accuses the group of sheltering TTP militants—a claim the Taliban denies. Meanwhile, Afghanistan’s economic crisis and Pakistan’s crackdown on Afghan refugees have further strained ties.
Experts fear unchecked escalation could turn the border into a conflict flashpoint, with broader geopolitical consequences.
What Comes Next?
With both sides entrenched, the outlook remains tense. The Taliban’s shift from diplomacy to confrontation risks isolating Afghanistan further, given its reliance on Pakistani trade routes.
China has reportedly offered mediation, but neither side appears ready to compromise. If tensions persist, the fallout could reshape South Asia’s security landscape.
Stay updated with the latest developments on this ongoing crisis.
