Pakistan condemns Afghan aggression, vows strong military response

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has condemned aggressive actions by Afghan forces in border areas, emphasising a strong response from the Pakistan Army. 

The Prime Minister stated that Pakistan’s armed forces destroyed several Afghan posts, forcing the adversary to retreat, Caliber.Az reports, citing Daily Pakistan.

“There will be no compromise on Pakistan’s defence, and every provocation will be met with a decisive and robust response,” Sharif stressed, expressing confidence in the professionalism and strength of the national army.

Sharif also highlighted the ongoing threat from terrorist groups operating from Afghan territory, noting that Islamabad has shared relevant intelligence with Kabul.

He urged the Taliban government to prevent the use of Afghan soil for attacks on Pakistan.

“The nation stands united with our security forces,” he added, reaffirming that the defence of the country remains unwavering.

The latest flare-up began October 9 with unconfirmed Pakistani airstrikes on Kabul, Khost, Jalalabad, and Paktika—targeting TTP leader Noor Wali Mehsud's hideouts, per local reports—killing an unknown number and drawing Taliban vows of "consequences." Kabul accused Islamabad of bombing a Paktika market and violating sovereignty; Pakistan denied but warned of action against Afghan-based threats. On October 11, 11 Pakistani soldiers died in a TTP ambush near Tirah (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa), claimed as retaliation.

Clashes peaked late October 11 into early October 12: Afghan forces shelled Pakistani posts in Bajaur, Mohmand, Kurram, and North Waziristan, capturing 19-25 outposts (per Taliban claims) and killing 58 Pakistani troops/30 wounded (disputed; Pakistan reports 17 dead). Pakistan's army counterattacked, destroying Afghan posts (e.g., Karzai in Bajaur, Topser in Kurram, Asmatullah Karrar camp in Spin Boldak) with artillery/airstrikes, killing "dozens" of Taliban/TTP fighters and forcing retreats. Torkham crossing shut, displacing locals; total casualties: 58+ Pakistani, 9 Afghan soldiers (official Taliban figure).

By Khagan Isayev