Tensions have once again escalated near the Chaman border, where Afghan officials have alleged that Pakistani forces have violated the ceasefire across the border.
According to the Afghan Ministry of Defense, the firing took place in the Spin Boldak area on Thursday morning and afternoon, however, Afghan forces refrained from retaliating so as to avoid civilian casualties and not affect the ongoing peace talks.
On the other hand, Pakistan has dismissed the Afghan allegations as baseless and has taken the position that terrorist groups from across the border are carrying out operations within Pakistani territory, which it is Islamabad’s responsibility to stop. According to the Pakistani Foreign Office spokesperson, “Pakistan desires peace, but will not compromise on its security.”
Meanwhile, the third round of mediation talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan is underway in Istanbul, Turkey, co-hosted by Turkey and Qatar. The talks are aimed at reducing the escalating border tensions between the two countries and ensuring the implementation of the ceasefire agreement.
The Afghan government has claimed that Pakistani forces also targeted civilian areas, but no casualties were reported. Pakistan has rejected these claims, saying that the firing was only against the hideouts of terrorists who were involved in attacks on Pakistan from Afghan territory.
According to analysts, the recent clashes show a lack of trust between the two countries. If the talks fail, the risks to peace and stability in the region could increase further.
Read more:Pakistan, Afghanistan agree to continue ceasefire in Istanbul talks
