Tensions rise between Afghanistan and Pakistan over security concerns

Relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan have grown increasingly tense due to cross-border security issues and the presence of militant groups, Afghan news agency Khaama Press reported. While Pakistan has long maintained ties with the Taliban, recent developments suggest growing friction, particularly over the activities of the Islamic State-Khorasan Province (IS-KP).

Pakistan has accused Afghanistan of harboring Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants, leading to airstrikes in Khost and Paktika. Meanwhile, the Taliban government has reinforced measures along the Durand Line, a long-disputed border. Both sides blame each other for security threats, with Afghanistan alleging IS-KP operates training camps in Pakistan—claims Islamabad strongly denies.

A Taliban security report released on January 22 suggested IS-KP elements have regrouped outside Afghanistan, with unverified reports of activity in Pakistan’s Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. IS-KP has claimed responsibility for recent attacks, including the killing of Afghanistan’s Minister for Refugees and a Chinese worker in Takhar.

Pakistan has responded to rising militant activity with military operations, particularly against the TTP. The situation remains volatile, with border clashes further straining diplomatic ties.