ISLAMABAD; Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir called on President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadr on Wednesday and briefed him on the security situation along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border following Afghan forces’ “provocative actions.”
According to the President’s Secretariat, Field Marshal Munir briefed the president on both internal and external security matters, with a particular focus on the border situation. He informed President Zardari that Pakistani forces had given a “measured and befitting response” to Afghan attacks.
The president expressed full confidence in the operational preparedness and strength of the armed forces, lauding their vigilance and professionalism in defending the borders. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity at all costs.
Last week, Afghan forces — aided by militant groups including Fitna al-Khawarij — launched multiple attacks on border areas such as Angoor Adda, Bajaur, and Kurram.
In response, Pakistani forces carried out precision strikes on Taliban camps and posts inside Afghan territory, killing more than 200 Taliban and affiliated terrorists. Twenty-three Pakistani soldiers embraced martyrdom during the clashes.
Despite the heavy losses inflicted by Pakistan, Afghan forces resumed unprovoked attacks early on October 15, targeting four locations in the Spin Boldak area of Balochistan. Pakistani troops repelled the assault, killing 15–20 militants and destroying eight Afghan posts, including six tanks, according to ISPR.
The escalation has drawn international concern. Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iran, Russia, and other countries have urged both sides to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue. The tensions coincided with a visit by the Taliban’s top diplomat to India, during which he made anti-Pakistan remarks — despite Pakistan’s decades-long support for Afghans and its hosting of millions of refugees.
