Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif Promises 'Strong Response' After Afghan Strikes Kill 58 Soldiers

International News: Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday strongly condemned attacks by Afghanistan and promised a firm response. The strikes reportedly killed at least 58 Pakistani soldiers. The Taliban government’s spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, said that Afghan forces had taken control of 25 Pakistani army posts and that 30 soldiers were injured. Nine Taliban fighters also lost their lives. Afghan officials said the attacks were in retaliation for repeated violations of their land and airspace.

Strong message from Pakistan

"There will be no compromise on Pakistan's defence, and every provocation will be met with a strong and effective response," AFP quoted Prime Minister Sharif as saying. He accused the Taliban government in Afghanistan of allowing their territory to be used by "terrorist elements." Although Afghanistan reported at least 58 Pakistani soldiers dead, Islamabad has not yet confirmed the figure.

Rising tensions

The clashes come shortly after Afghan officials accused Pakistan of bombing both Kabul and a marketplace in eastern Afghanistan, which Pakistan denied. During a Sunday press briefing in Kabul, Mujahid stated that all official borders and informal lines in Afghanistan are under complete control, and most illegal activities have been stopped.

Afghan defence readiness

The Taliban government’s defense ministry warned that if Pakistan again violates Afghan territory, its forces are ready to defend the nation and give a strong response.

Border closures

The Torkham border crossing, one of two main trade routes between Pakistan and Afghanistan, was initially closed. Later on Sunday, Pakistan reportedly shut all border crossings with Afghanistan, according to Reuters citing Pakistani officials. The two countries share a 2,611-kilometer border called the Durand Line, which Afghanistan has never officially recognized. Relations between the nations have remained tense since the Taliban returned to power in 2021. Pakistan accuses Afghan authorities of sheltering militants who attack its territory, a claim Kabul denies.