The Afghan Taliban on Thursday accused Pakistani forces of attacking the Spin Boldak region in southern Afghanistan, claiming the assault took place even as peace talks between the two sides were underway in Istanbul.
According to Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid, the attack occurred despite a truce agreement reached earlier in Qatar.
“While the third round of negotiations with the Pakistani side has begun in Istanbul, unfortunately, this afternoon, Pakistani forces once again opened fire on Spin Boldak, causing concern among the local population,” Mujahid said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
“The Islamic Emirate’s forces, out of respect for the negotiation team and to prevent civilian casualties, have so far shown no reaction,” he added.
He further noted that during the previous round of negotiations, both sides had agreed to extend the ceasefire and “prevent any acts of aggression.”
💥 Projectiles Fired From Pakistan, Says AFP
According to a report by AFP, projectiles were fired from Pakistan into Afghanistan, with Afghan sources alleging that both light and heavy weapons were used to target civilian areas.
Islamabad has not yet issued an official statement in response to the Taliban’s accusations.
🕊️ Background: Fragile Ceasefire and Rising Tensions
Border tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have been escalating over the past month.
In early October, clashes along the border — following explosions in Kabul — killed more than 70 people, including around 50 Afghan civilians, according to United Nations estimates.
It was one of the deadliest confrontations in years between the neighbouring countries. Relations have deteriorated significantly since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, with Pakistan frequently accusing Kabul of harbouring militants involved in cross-border attacks.
The two countries agreed to a ceasefire on October 19 during talks in Qatar, but further progress stalled in Turkey last week due to disagreements over the truce’s implementation.
Reports indicate that the third round of peace talks resumed in Istanbul on Thursday, with both sides warning of renewed fighting if negotiations fail.