Pakistan-Afghanistan tensions have worsened following deadly clashes along their common border. Both accuse the other. Afghanistan’s Taliban claim to have killed 58 Pakistani troops and seized some border outposts. Pakistan reports that 23 of its troops were killed, but also claims to have killed more than 200 Afghan combatants and blown up several Taliban camps. The clashes broke out after Kabul and Paktika blasts blamed by the Taliban on Pakistan. It was denied by Pakistan, but it threatened to take severe action if the attacks persisted. The Taliban claimed that it was defending its territory from multiple incursions. Thousands have been displaced, and the clashes are fueling concerns of an imminent bigger war. Major border crossings such as Torkham and Chaman have now shut down, leaving many trucks stranded. Most nations, such as Iran, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, are calling on both parties to stay calm and not use further violence. The foreign minister of the Taliban indicated they do not have any issues with Pakistan but cautioned against future attacks. The situation is tense without a clear indication of resolution in the near future.

Pray for peaceful and friendly relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Pray for the authorities of both countries to agree on peace talks to end the deadly clashes along their borders (The Holy Bible, Proverbs 16:7).

Pray for divine protection upon all the innocent civilians in both Afghanistan and Pakistan. Pray for a peaceful end to the conflict between the two countries (The Holy Bible, Psalm 94:22).

News Source: BBC and Al Jazeera

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