By Caaqil News International Desk
October 18, 2025 | Kabul, Afghanistan
The Afghan government has accused Pakistan of violating a recently agreed truce after deadly cross-border strikes targeted Afghan territory, resulting in casualties among civilians and local security forces. The incident has heightened tensions between the two neighbors, threatening fragile efforts at regional stability.
Afghan officials say the strikes occurred late Tuesday evening along the eastern border, in Kunar and Nangarhar provinces, areas that have historically been hotspots for insurgent activity. Preliminary reports indicate at least five civilians were killed and ten others wounded in the attacks.
Pakistan has once again violated our sovereignty and undermined the truce agreement,” said Afghanistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in an official statement. “These acts are unacceptable and will be met with appropriate diplomatic responses.
Details of the Cross-Border Strikes
According to local authorities, Pakistani forces allegedly fired artillery and conducted aerial bombardments across the border, targeting areas where Afghan security forces were conducting counter-insurgency operations.
Villagers described panic and destruction as homes and farmlands were damaged in the strikes. Hospitals in Kunar province reported an influx of injured civilians, including women and children.
We ran into the mountains as the shells landed,” said Ahmad Gul, a local resident. “Many houses were destroyed, and several families lost everything.
The Afghan government condemned the attacks as a breach of trust, especially since both countries had recently agreed to a temporary truce aimed at reducing border tensions and combating insurgent activities in the region.
Diplomatic Reactions and Escalation Concerns
The Afghan Foreign Ministry summoned Pakistan’s ambassador to Kabul to lodge a formal protest, demanding an immediate cessation of cross-border attacks. Officials warned that continued violations could escalate military tensions along the border.
We urge Pakistan to respect the truce and engage in dialogue,” said Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Hussain Qaderi. “Peaceful cooperation is the only way forward to ensure the safety of civilians and stability in the region.
Pakistan has not yet released an official statement regarding the accusations. However, analysts note that previous cross-border tensions have often been justified by Pakistan as operations against militants allegedly taking refuge in Afghan territory.
Impact on Border Communities
The cross-border strikes have deeply affected border communities, forcing hundreds of families to flee their homes for safer areas. Schools were closed, local markets disrupted, and humanitarian needs are rising.
People are terrified. They cannot farm, and children cannot go to school,” said Farida Habibi, a teacher from Kunar province. “The truce was giving hope, but now we are back to fear and uncertainty.
Humanitarian agencies operating in the region expressed concern over the safety of civilians, emphasizing the need for both countries to respect international humanitarian law and ensure protection for non-combatants.
Regional Security Implications
The alleged truce violation comes amid ongoing efforts by regional powers and international organizations to stabilize Afghanistan and improve relations with Pakistan.
Experts warn that continued cross-border attacks could undermine peace negotiations with insurgent groups and complicate international support for Afghanistan’s security sector.
This incident risks reigniting tensions that the truce aimed to reduce,” said Dr. Imran Shafiq, a South Asia security analyst. “Border violations have a cascading effect on diplomatic relations, internal stability, and counter-terrorism efforts.
The international community, including the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), has repeatedly called on both countries to maintain restraint and dialogue to prevent civilian casualties and escalation.
Afghanistan’s Response and Military Preparedness
In response to the strikes, Afghan security forces have heightened alert along the eastern border, deploying additional troops and strengthening early warning systems. The Afghan military emphasized that it seeks to avoid retaliation but will defend its territory if further attacks occur.
Our priority is protecting civilians while maintaining sovereignty,” said Major General Sherzad Hussaini. “We will respond proportionally if attacks continue.
The Ministry of Defense also stated that border monitoring operations will increase, with enhanced coordination with local community leaders to report suspicious activities and ensure rapid response to cross-border threats.
Call for Renewed Dialogue
Afghanistan’s government has urged Pakistan to return to diplomatic talks to reaffirm the truce and prevent further loss of life. Analysts emphasize that bilateral dialogue, trust-building measures, and transparency are essential to avoid escalating violence along the border.
Both countries share economic, cultural, and security interests that can only be achieved through cooperation,” Dr. Shafiq noted. “Violations of the truce are setbacks to long-term peace.
International Concerns and Mediation Efforts
The United Nations, European Union, and neighboring countries have expressed concern over the rising tensions and are reportedly monitoring the situation closely. Calls for neutral mediation aim to bring both sides back to the negotiating table and prevent further civilian harm.
The UNAMA spokesperson reiterated that cross-border attacks on civilians are unacceptable, urging immediate action to de-escalate tensions and uphold international humanitarian standards.
The protection of civilians must remain the highest priority,” said the UN official. “We call on both Afghanistan and Pakistan to honor commitments and work toward lasting stability.
