pakistan-kills-16-terrorists-at-pak-afghan-border

Pakistan has claimed to have thwarted a significant infiltration attempt along the Pak-Afghan border, resulting in the deaths of at least 16 individuals identified as terrorists.

 

The incident occurred shortly after the reopening of the Pak-Afghan Torkham border, which had been closed for 26 days.

 

According to a statement by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), security forces detected the movement of armed individuals near the Ghulam Khan Kallay area in North Waziristan.

 

The suspects, believed to have crossed from Afghanistan, were intercepted and engaged by Pakistani forces. Following a fierce exchange of gunfire, all 16 intruders were reportedly neutralised. The ISPR referred to the attackers as "Khwarij," a term used to describe extremists.

 

The timing of the incident has cast a shadow over recent diplomatic efforts aimed at stabilising relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Both nations had recently reopened the Torkham border, accompanied by a ceasefire agreement, with hopes of improving cross-border cooperation.

 

Diplomatic channels had been activated, with a Pakistani delegation led by Ambassador Sadiq Khan visiting Kabul for discussions with the Afghan Taliban leadership.

 

The focus of these talks was on strengthening trade, border management, and addressing refugee concerns. The visit also followed a US delegation's departure from Afghanistan, adding further significance to the dialogue.

 

In response to the attempted infiltration, Pakistan has urged the Afghan authorities to strengthen their border management and prevent their territory from being used for hostile activities against Pakistan.

 

The ISPR expressed expectations that the interim Afghan government would take responsibility and prevent extremist elements from exploiting Afghan soil.

 

This incident highlights the persistent challenges along the Pak-Afghan border, where tensions have often flared due to security concerns and mutual distrust.

 

As both nations seek stability in the region, effective collaboration and a commitment to addressing underlying issues remain essential.