ISLAMABAD (Oct 17) – The United Nations on Thursday called on Pakistan and Afghanistan to ensure a “lasting end to hostilities” and protect civilians, after days of intense cross-border fighting left dozens dead and hundreds injured.
The clashes mark the worst crisis between the neighbors since 2021, when the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan following the fall of the Western-backed government.
Violence along the border has surged since October 10, with both sides blaming each other for armed provocations. The two countries agreed to a 48-hour ceasefire on Wednesday, following appeals from major regional powers worried the escalating conflict could destabilize the region — where extremist groups such as Islamic State and al-Qaida are attempting to re-emerge.
The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) welcomed the truce and said it was assessing the full extent of civilian casualties. “Current information indicates that at least 17 civilians were killed and 346 injured in Spin Boldak on the Afghan side of the border,” the mission said.
UNAMA urged both governments to prioritize civilian safety and reopen humanitarian channels, as key border crossings between the two countries remained closed on Thursday.
Analysts note that Pakistan holds a significant military advantage over Afghanistan, which remains limited in its defense capabilities following years of conflict and sanctions.
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