China’s Mediation Fails: Pakistan Strikes Again, Afghanistan Summons Envoy

Islamabad: The Pakistani rocket and mortar attack in Kunar province of Afghanistan has once again deepened the gap between the two countries. Four people were killed, more than 70 were injured—and a large number of those injured were children who had gone to school at the time.

What does Pakistan have to say?

Pakistan clearly refused to accept the allegations. His answer is the same – whatever action is taken, it is against terrorist hideouts and not against civilians. But when students are among those killed, this argument begins to sound hollow.

Is the matter limited to just one attack?

This is not the first time. For the last several months, small and big skirmishes have been taking place continuously between the two countries. No day passes peacefully on the border. The tension that used to flare up occasionally has now become a daily habit.

Why is there controversy over Durand Line?

The root of this entire dispute is the same old one – the Durand Line. This border line, about 2600 kilometers long, is the international border for Pakistan, but Afghanistan never accepted it wholeheartedly. This one thing has been a sore spot between the two countries for decades.

Has tension increased at the diplomatic level also?

After the attack, Afghanistan summoned the Pakistani diplomat in Kabul and expressed strong protest. But merely registering a protest does not change the ground situation.

What has been the impact on the common people?

Thousands of families living near the border have already left their homes. For them this is not a political dispute, but a question of daily life.

Are peace efforts failing?

A few months ago, hopes for talks were raised. China played the role of mediator, there were talks of ceasefire. But this attack shows that those efforts have now been left behind.

What are the further indications?

What is visible at the moment is that neither Pakistan is going to bow down nor Afghanistan is going to remain silent. And those people who have nothing to do with this politics are getting crushed in this tussle. Only upcoming days will decide what will happen next.