Afghanistan

JEDDAH — Saudi Arabia has called for calm after heavy exchanges of fire between Pakistani and Taliban forces broke out along the Afghanistan–Pakistan border, prompting fears of escalating tensions in the region. In a statement carried by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed “deep concern over the escalation” and urged both sides to exercise “self-restraint, avoid escalation, and embrace dialogue and wisdom.” The statement further emphasized the Kingdom’s “support for all regional and international efforts aimed at promoting peace and stability.” According to reports from both sides, clashes erupted on Saturday morning when Pakistani and Taliban forces traded heavy gunfire and artillery along several border points. Residents in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province said shelling and machine-gun fire could be heard for hours. Pakistani authorities claimed the “Afghan side opened unprovoked fire”, prompting a “befitting response” from Pakistani border forces. In contrast, the Taliban’s Ministry of Defense in Kabul accused Pakistan of “carrying out airstrikes on Afghan territory”, stating that “Afghan forces were compelled to respond to protect national sovereignty.” According to Al Jazeera, heavy weapons were used, and casualties have been reported on both sides, though official numbers remain unclear. The clashes triggered widespread concern across neighboring countries. Iran’s foreign ministry called on both Islamabad and Kabul to “exercise restraint and resolve differences through dialogue.” Analysts warn the renewed fighting could destabilize the border region, where Pakistan has accused Afghanistan of harboring militants involved in cross-border attacks. The Taliban, meanwhile, continues to deny those allegations and insists Pakistan’s air operations are “violations of Afghan sovereignty.” A former Pakistani diplomat told Al Jazeera that “these repeated confrontations are dangerous and can spiral quickly if not addressed through diplomatic channels.” Also Read | Afghan Minister sparks Outrage after ‘Ban’ Women Journalists Saudi Arabia’s intervention underscores its growing role as a stabilizing force in regional diplomacy. By calling for restraint, the Kingdom reaffirmed its “commitment to supporting peace and stability in South Asia.” The statement concluded by reiterating that both nations should “prioritize dialogue over conflict to ensure the safety and stability of their people.” As tensions simmer, observers say that the coming days will be crucial in determining whether Islamabad and Kabul move toward diplomacy or deeper conflict.