Kabul experienced multiple explosions and gunfire on Tuesday as Afghan and Pakistani troops engaged in escalating border battles. The Afghan defense ministry confirmed ongoing fighting against Pakistani forces. Similar sounds of explosions and weapons fire were reported in Jalalabad and at the Torkham border crossing.
These clashes, which began Thursday after Afghan forces launched an offensive against Pakistani air strikes, have resulted in significant civilian casualties. The Afghan government reported at least 39 civilians killed since Thursday. The UN children's charity expressed alarm over child casualties and urged restraint from all parties.
Islamabad stated its air strikes targeted militants, while Afghanistan denies failing to act against groups operating in Pakistan. The current violence, particularly in southern Kandahar and neighboring Zabul provinces, marks the most severe since October, leading to widespread border closures.