Military tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have intensified, leading to airstrikes and artillery exchanges across the border. Reports indicate that shelling has caused alarm among civilians, prompting many to flee from temporary camps and neighboring villages in search of safety. Local resident Waqas Shinwari highlighted the weariness of people on both sides, who are longing for peace after enduring months of instability due to ongoing conflicts.

The situation escalated significantly when Afghan officials accused Pakistan of bombarding civilian areas, to which Afghan forces responded with strikes against Pakistani military positions. In retaliation, Pakistan conducted air raids targeting Kabul and other provinces – marking the most extensive military action since the Taliban regained control in 2021. The Pakistani government attributes this escalation to cross-border militant activities, a claim that the Afghan government has firmly rejected. This ongoing tit-for-tat exchange has further strained relations between the two nations, exacerbating the security situation in the region.

As a result of the escalating military actions, border crossings have been largely shuttered, hampering trade activities and family gatherings that typically occur between the two countries. With diplomatic efforts failing to yield results and mediation initiatives stalling, the risk of a prolonged confrontation looms large, leaving civilians caught in the crossfire and heightening fears of an extended conflict that could impact the wider region.