Drone attacks, air strikes and declaration of war…Continually increasing tension between Pakistan and Afghanistan

New Delhi: The ongoing tension between Afghanistan and Pakistan has now again reached a dangerous point. Fresh clashes near the border in the early hours have made the situation more serious. The series of accusations, counter-accusations and counter-attacks continues between the two countries, due to which concern has increased in the entire region. According to local media reports, firing started between the armies of the two countries around the Durand Line in Terwa district of Paktika province at around 3 am on Saturday morning. There has been no official confirmation of any casualties in this clash yet.

The forces of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan have claimed that they targeted Pakistani military bases with drones in Miranshah and Spinwam areas of North Waziristan in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. There has also been news of fire after the attack on a military base in Spinwam. The Afghan side has named these attacks “Rad al-Zulm” and said that this action was taken in response to the bombings carried out by Pakistan in Khost and Paktia.

Pakistan declared ‘open war’

Earlier, Pakistan had carried out air strikes in Kabul, Kandahar and Paktia. Declaring ‘open war’ against Afghanistan, Khawaja Asif said that Pakistan will not compromise on its security. Pakistan says that its action was taken in response to the firing from the Afghan border. According to the Information Ministry, the Army has responded “immediately and effectively” and every necessary step will be taken to protect the territorial integrity of the country.

Trump also gave a statement

Amidst these circumstances, when US President Donald Trump was asked about the situation in Afghanistan, he said that he can intervene if needed. However, he also clarified that he has “very, very good” relations with Pakistan. Trump praised the Prime Minister of Pakistan and said that the government there is doing good work. His statement is being seen as a soft stance towards Pakistan amidst regional tension.

Mediation efforts intensified

Many countries have become active to reduce tension. Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey have contacted both sides and started trying to calm the situation. The Turkish Foreign Minister has taken the initiative to find a solution by talking to the foreign ministers of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Qatar and Saudi Arabia on phone. The United Nations has also expressed concern over the situation. The United Nations has appealed to both the countries to give priority to the safety of civilians and resolve the dispute through dialogue.