United Nations Calls for an End to Cross-Border Violence
ISLAMABAD (AP) — On Thursday, the United Nations urged Pakistan and Afghanistan to conclude hostilities for the sake of protecting civilians. The statement came after several days of fighting that have resulted in dozens of deaths and hundreds of injuries across both nations.
This surge in violence marks the deadliest crisis between the two neighbors since 2021, when the Taliban took power following the collapse of Afghanistan’s Western-backed government. Tensions have escalated since October 10, with each side accusing the other of armed provocations. In response, both countries agreed to a ceasefire on Wednesday after appeals from several regional powers, as concerns grew over the threat of further destabilization in the area.
The truce comes amid fears that extremist groups, including affiliates of the Islamic State and al-Qaida, might exploit the unrest to reassert influence. Although key border crossings remained closed into Thursday, there were no reports of further violence overnight.
The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan welcomed the ceasefire and is actively assessing the casualty figures. According to its preliminary report, at least 17 civilians lost their lives and 346 were injured in the town of Spin Boldak on the Afghan side of the border. Additional reports indicate that similar levels of destruction occurred across several provinces, though Pakistan has yet to release its estimates.
UN officials stressed the urgent need for a lasting cessation of hostilities in order to protect innocent lives and prevent further bloodshed. Meanwhile, Pakistan has repeatedly accused Afghanistan of harboring militants—a claim that the Taliban has denied. Pakistan continues to struggle with a rise in attacks since 2021.
The two countries share a 2,611‐kilometer border known as the Durand Line, a boundary that Afghanistan has never officially recognized. As the situation develops, international observers remain focused on preventing any further escalation in the volatile region.
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