Over 200 Afghan Fighters Killed, 23 Pakistani Soldiers Martyred in Border Clashes: ISPR

In a tense and tragic night of cross-border violence, Pakistan’s Armed Forces repelled an unprovoked attack by Afghan Taliban forces along the Pak-Afghan border. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), more than 200 Afghan Taliban fighters were killed, while 23 Pakistani soldiers embraced martyrdom in the intense exchange of fire that erupted between October 11 and 12.

Attack Backed by Foreign Elements

The ISPR statement revealed that the Afghan assault was not an isolated act. It was reportedly supported by “Indian-sponsored elements of Fitna al Khwarij (FAK)”, a group linked to the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The statement condemned the “cowardly action” that aimed to destabilize Pakistan’s border regions and promote terrorism in the country.

Pakistan’s Swift and Decisive Response

The Pakistani military acted swiftly, launching precision strikes against multiple Taliban positions across the border. ISPR said the response included a combination of targeted fires, physical raids, and air assaults. These operations successfully neutralized numerous Taliban fighters and destroyed several of their camps and posts used for planning terrorist attacks.

Destruction of Taliban Camps and Facilities

According to official intelligence assessments, twenty-one Taliban strongholds were captured briefly during the operation. Many terrorist training camps and support networks were rendered useless. ISPR confirmed that Pakistan took all possible measures to avoid harming civilians, maintaining its tradition of restraint even in moments of aggression.

Heavy Taliban Losses and Structural Damage

The scale of destruction was severe on the Afghan side. ISPR estimated that over 200 Taliban and affiliated terrorists were neutralized, while dozens more were injured. Their infrastructure, including posts, camps, and headquarters, suffered extensive damage. The strikes hit both tactical and operational targets, severely disrupting their networks along the border.

Tribute to the Martyred Soldiers

During the night-long engagement, 23 Pakistani soldiers sacrificed their lives defending their homeland, while 29 others were injured. The military honored their courage and dedication, reaffirming that the nation stands united behind its armed forces. ISPR’s statement vowed that Pakistan’s defenders will continue to protect the nation’s borders with unwavering faith and determination.

Summary of Border Clash Data

Pakistan’s Call for Afghan Accountability

ISPR urged the Taliban government to take swift action against terrorist elements operating from its soil. The statement emphasized that while Pakistan prefers diplomacy and peace, it cannot tolerate terrorism being launched from Afghanistan. It warned that continued provocations would compel Pakistan to exercise its right to defend its people through further decisive actions.

Link Between India and Taliban’s Provocation

Pakistan’s military noted that the attack took place during the visit of Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister to India, a country described as the “biggest sponsor of terrorism in the region.” ISPR said this timing raises questions about coordination and motives behind the aggression, linking it to broader regional plots aimed at destabilizing Pakistan.

Pakistan’s Firm Warning to the Taliban

In a stern warning, ISPR said Pakistan would persistently neutralize terror targets if the Taliban failed to curb such groups. It urged the Taliban to abandon “ill-begotten notions” and instead focus on the peace, prosperity, and progress of the Afghan people. The statement said the recent incident only proved Pakistan’s long-standing claim that terrorists are being facilitated from Afghan soil.

Afghanistan’s Response and Counterclaims

In contrast, Afghanistan’s Taliban-led government claimed to have killed 58 Pakistani soldiers during the clashes — a claim rejected by Pakistani authorities. Kabul later stated that it had halted attacks after requests from Qatar and Saudi Arabia, both of which expressed concern over the rising tensions.

Taliban’s Official Statement

“The Islamic Emirate and the people of Afghanistan will defend their land,” said Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Taliban administration. He asserted there was “no threat in any part of Afghanistan,” insisting that the country remained committed to defending its sovereignty despite international calls for restraint.

Prime Minister’s Strong Condemnation

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to the martyred soldiers and lauded the army’s “strong and effective response.” In a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, he said Pakistan took great pride in the professionalism and bravery of its armed forces. The premier reaffirmed that no compromise would be made on Pakistan’s defense.

Field Marshal Asim Munir’s Leadership

PM Shehbaz credited Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, the Army Chief, for leading with courage and decisiveness. He said under his leadership, the army had successfully destroyed several Afghan posts and forced the enemy to retreat. The premier stressed that Pakistan’s defense lies in capable hands, and the entire nation stands shoulder to shoulder with its forces.

Warning to Afghanistan Over Terrorist Networks

The Prime Minister reminded Kabul that Pakistan had repeatedly warned of terrorist groups operating from Afghan territory, including Fitna-e-Khawarij and Fitna-e-Hindustan. He said Pakistan expected the Taliban government to act responsibly and ensure its land was not used to harm Pakistan. “Terrorist organizations are being supported by certain elements within Afghanistan,” he said gravely.

Pakistan Seals Its Border Crossings

In response to the clashes, Pakistan closed major border crossings with Afghanistan — including Torkham and Chaman — as a security precaution. Smaller crossings such as Kharlachi, Angoor Adda, and Ghulam Khan were also sealed. Pakistani officials reported that several Afghan border posts were destroyed in retaliatory attacks during the exchange of artillery and gunfire.

Situation Along the Border

Although heavy firing subsided by Sunday morning, sporadic gunfire continued in parts of Kurram. Local authorities reported that while calm was returning, the region remained on high alert. Afghan officials, however, maintained that their operations had ended by midnight and that there was no threat left within their borders.

Regional and International Reactions

The Gulf nations voiced their concern over the deteriorating situation. Saudi Arabia called for restraint and dialogue, reaffirming its commitment to peace and regional stability. Similarly, Qatar urged both nations to prioritize diplomacy and work towards de-escalation, emphasizing that peace and cooperation were vital for both the Afghan and Pakistani peoples.

Islamabad’s Unyielding Resolve

Despite international appeals for calm, Pakistan remains firm in its stance. ISPR reiterated that the Armed Forces are prepared to respond to any future provocations. “Our resolve to defend the country’s territorial integrity and defeat those who threaten our security is unwavering,” the statement concluded, echoing Pakistan’s determination to safeguard its sovereignty.

A Nation United in Grief and Pride

As Pakistan mourns the loss of its 23 brave martyrs, the nation also takes pride in the strength and discipline of its army. Across cities and villages, prayers were offered for the fallen heroes who stood tall in defense of their homeland. In moments like these, the country’s spirit shines brightest united, resolute, and ready to face any challenge that threatens its peace.