On October 10, 2025, Pakistan conducted an airstrike in Kabul’s District 8, targeting Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) leader Noor Wali Mehsud. Mehsud confirmed the death of his son in the attack but stated he himself is safe. There are reports of possible civilian casualties in Afghanistan. On the same day, a border clash in the Tirah region resulted in the deaths of 11 Pakistani soldiers, with the Afghan Taliban issuing a warning of “serious consequences” and launching retaliatory attacks.
News Update by SNPNEWS.IN (Gurmail Kamboj): The ongoing tension between Pakistan and Afghanistan escalated dangerously on October 10, 2025, when Pakistan carried out an airstrike on Afghanistan capital Kabul’s, District 8, targeting Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) leader Noor Wali Mehsud. Mehsud confirmed the death of his son in the attack but stated he himself is safe. There are reports of possible civilian casualties in Afghanistan. On the same day, a border clash in the Tirah region resulted in the deaths of 11 Pakistani soldiers, with the Afghan Taliban issuing a warning of “serious consequences” and launching retaliatory attacks.
The conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan is rooted in historical, border, and security issues, primarily centered around the Durand Line, established in 1893. This 2,430-kilometer boundary, drawn during British colonial rule under an agreement between Sir Mortimer Durand and Afghan Amir Abdur Rahman Khan, divides Pashtun territories. Pakistan considers it an international border, while Afghanistan, including the Taliban and previous governments, views it as a colonial imposition and has never fully recognized it.
Since the Afghan Taliban’s return to power in 2021, tensions have intensified, involving issues like support for groups such as the TTP, border skirmishes, and the division of Pashtun regions. By August 2025, the conflict reached a peak with Pakistan conducting airstrikes in Kabul and engaging in cross-border firing.
Conflict Overview and Recent Developments:
Ongoing Conflict with TTP: Since January 2025, hundreds of Pakistani soldiers and TTP members have been killed in clashes. The TTP has claimed responsibility for over 600 attacks in recent months, significantly increasing violence in Pakistan.
October 10 Airstrike on Kabul: Pakistan targeted TTP leader Noor Wali Mehsud in Kabul’s District 8. Mehsud confirmed his son’s death but stated he escaped unharmed. The Afghan Taliban condemned the attack as “unprovoked and escalatory,” vowing retaliation and initiating a probe. Reports suggest civilian casualties, though exact numbers are unconfirmed.
Border Clash in Tirah: On the same day, a skirmish along the Afghan border in the Tirah region led to the deaths of 11 Pakistani soldiers. The Afghan Taliban responded with counterattacks and warned Pakistan of severe repercussions.
Pakistan’s Stance: Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of sheltering TTP militants, with Defense Minister Khawaja Asif reiterating calls for the Taliban to curb TTP activities.
Afghanistan’s Response: The Taliban insists Afghan soil is not used against any country and condemned Pakistan’s actions as a violation of sovereignty. Meanwhile, Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi is in India, discussing enhanced counter-terrorism cooperation with Indian officials, further complicating regional dynamics.
Regional Implications:
The airstrikes and border clashes have heightened tensions, with Afghanistan’s growing ties with India raising concerns for Pakistan. The TTP’s intensified attacks and Pakistan’s cross-border operations risk further destabilizing the region. The United Nations and China are pressing for de-escalation, but without diplomatic breakthroughs, the conflict could escalate further.