UN Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed deep concern regarding the escalation of violence between Afghanistan and Pakistan, urging for an immediate ceasefire. The situation deteriorated on Friday night as the Taliban launched a series of attacks on the Afghan capital of Kabul and various provinces, declaring an 'open war' against the Afghan government. Guterres emphasized the detrimental impact of this violence on the civilian population, highlighting the urgent need for international intervention and dialogue.

In a post on social media platform X, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's spokesperson, Mosharraf Zaidi, reiterated Pakistan's commitment to combating terrorism that is believed to emanate from Afghanistan. He reported that Pakistani operations against suspected terrorists have resulted in numerous casualties. According to the Pakistani authorities, 297 individuals identified as Taliban members and links to other terrorist organizations have been killed in these military strikes, reflecting the intensity of the conflict and the government's determination to address the security threats.

The unfolding situation poses a significant threat not only to the stability within Afghanistan and Pakistan but also to the broader regional security. The calls for a ceasefire by the UN leader signal the international community's acknowledgment of the escalation and its impact on civilians, establishing a critical juncture for diplomatic efforts. Without immediate steps towards de-escalation, the risk of further violence could escalate, leading to a humanitarian crisis and a destabilized region, necessitating cooperation and dialogue among the involved parties and international stakeholders.