Pakistan-Afghanistan Conflict Erupts Again: Heavy Gunfire Echoes Across Spin Boldak-Chaman Stretch After Failed Peace Talks

Pakistan-Afghanistan Border News: Heavy gunfire broke out along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border late Friday, heightening tensions just days after yet another round of peace talks ended without any breakthrough. Officials on both sides confirmed the exchange of fire, though no casualties were immediately reported.

The incident occurred near Kandahar’s Spin Boldak district on the Afghan side and the Chaman crossing in Pakistan’s Balochistan province, which has repeatedly witnessed armed confrontations over the past year.

Taliban Accuses Pakistan of Attack

The Afghan Taliban’s chief spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, claimed that Pakistani forces initiated the firing in Spin Boldak, describing the exchange as a violation of the fragile ceasefire in place since October.

On the other side, Prime Minister’s spokesperson Mosharraf Zaidi accused Afghan border units of carrying out “unprovoked firing”, saying Pakistan’s forces responded only to defend their positions. “Pakistan remains fully alert and committed to ensuring its territorial integrity and the safety of our citizens,” Zaidi said in a brief statement, adding that the government had lodged a formal protest with Kabul.

Fresh Tension Follows Failed Talks

The clash came just two days after peace talks in Saudi Arabia concluded without progress. The meeting of ongoing mediation efforts by Qatar, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia aimed to stabilise the border after deadly clashes in October left several security personnel and civilians dead. Despite an agreement to maintain the ceasefire, officials had privately warned that the situation remained fragile, with both sides accusing each other of violating commitments.

At the heart of the standoff is Pakistan’s allegation that militant groups operating from Afghan soil have been behind recent terror attacks, including suicide bombings involving Afghan nationals. Though Kabul denies these claims, insisting it cannot be held responsible for Pakistan’s internal security challenges. Afghan officials say Islamabad must address its own domestic militancy issues rather than blaming the Taliban administration.

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The border, stretching over 2,600 km, has long been a point of friction, particularly since the Taliban seized power in 2021, altering the regional security landscape. The violence in October was the worst since the Taliban’s return, with dozens killed in intense exchanges near multiple crossing points. The clashes also disrupted the movement of goods, affecting border communities already struggling with inflation and limited employment opportunities.

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Friday night’s gunfire has raised concerns that the fragile calm achieved after October may be slipping again. As of Saturday morning, both sides maintained heightened alert levels, while diplomatic channels remained active to prevent further escalation.