ISLAMABAD – Tensions continue unabated between Pakistan and Afghanistan, and now security forces successfully thwarted two cross-border attacks by Afghan Taliban and Khawarij militants in Kurram and North Waziristan districts.
Initial reports claimed more than two dozen militants attempted to infiltrate Pakistan from Afghanistan, using Afghan Taliban border posts as launch points. Armed forces however responded swiftly, engaging in fierce exchange of fire. The militants opened heavy fire on Pakistani positions, but security forces launched a robust counterattack.
During the firing, over dozen militants and Afghan Taliban fighters were said be killed, with several others wounded. The heavy retaliation forced the Afghan Taliban to abandon six border posts and retreat, according to sources.
This latest incident follows escalation in tensions along Kurram-Khost border area, which saw clashes between Taliban forces and Pakistani troops in September this year. Pakistani authorities consistently urged Afghanistan to prevent the use of its soil for cross-border attacks, while the Taliban-led Afghan government has denied any involvement in harboring militants linked to the banned Tehrik-e Taliban.
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