Pakistan on Thursday rejected allegations by the Afghan regime over the recent exchange of fire at the Chaman-Spin Boldak border crossing, clarifying that the incident was initiated from the Afghan side.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting said that Afghan forces opened fire first, prompting an immediate but measured response from Pakistan’s security personnel.
“Firing was initiated from the Afghan side, to which our security forces responded immediately,” the statement read. “The situation was brought under control due to the disciplined and professional action of our forces.”
The ministry further emphasized that the ceasefire at the border remains intact and that Pakistan remains committed to resolving border issues through dialogue. It urged Afghan authorities to show “reciprocity and seriousness” in maintaining peace along the shared frontier.
Tensions Amid Peace Talks in Türkiye
The exchange of fire occurred while delegations from both countries are holding peace talks in Istanbul, following earlier rounds in Doha. The negotiations are aimed at reducing tensions and restoring stability after weeks of hostilities along the Pak-Afghan border.
Afghan officials claimed that Pakistani troops opened fire on Spin Boldak for about 10 to 15 minutes, according to AFP. However, Pakistan’s statement firmly denied the charge, reiterating that the Afghan side initiated the confrontation.
Last month, clashes erupted after Taliban fighters and allied militants launched unprovoked attacks on Pakistani security positions near the border. In response, Pakistan’s Armed Forces conducted counterstrikes, reportedly killing over 200 militants, while 23 Pakistani soldiers were martyred.
Pakistan also carried out targeted operations inside Afghanistan, including strikes on terrorist hideouts in Kabul, as part of efforts to dismantle militant infrastructure operating across the border.
Pakistan Calls for Stability and Responsibility
Following weeks of violence, both sides agreed to a temporary ceasefire on October 17, which largely held until the latest incident. The ongoing talks in Türkiye—resumed on October 25 and continuing through October 31—are focused on sustaining peace and preventing future confrontations.
Pakistan has repeatedly voiced concern over the surge in terrorist attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, accusing the Taliban-led regime of providing safe havens to anti-Pakistan militant groups.
Islamabad has called on Kabul to take concrete action against terrorists using Afghan soil for cross-border attacks, warning that continued negligence could jeopardize bilateral relations and regional stability.
“Pakistan has consistently worked to maintain peace along the Pak-Afghan border,” the ministry said. “We urge the Afghan side to avoid steps that escalate tensions and to uphold their commitments under the ceasefire.”
