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Pakistan and Taliban Trade Cross-Border Fire After Night Clash

Regional appeals for talks follow disputed tolls.

Overview

  • Pakistan’s military reports 23 soldiers killed and 29 wounded in the Oct. 11–12 fighting, claiming over 200 Taliban and allied militants were neutralized and 21 positions inside Afghanistan were briefly seized in precision strikes and raids.
  • Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid disputes Islamabad’s account, claiming 58 Pakistani troops were killed, more than 30 were wounded, and weapons were recovered in retaliatory operations near the Durand Line.
  • Islamabad accuses the Taliban government of providing safe haven and support to TTP/FAK networks and warns of a “befitting response” to any further provocations, while rejecting remarks by Afghanistan’s foreign minister made during a visit to India.
  • Cross-border trade and movement have been disrupted, with reports that the Torkham crossing was affected as both sides exchange allegations over airstrikes and border violations.
  • Iran, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia call for restraint and dialogue to prevent escalation, as Pakistani political leaders publicly endorse the military’s response and press Kabul to act against militant groups operating from Afghan soil.