Renewed clashes along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border have resulted in dozens of deaths, marking some of the deadliest skirmishes between the two neighbors in recent years. According to Afghan Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid, Pakistani forces struck Spin Boldak district in Kandahar early morning with heavy weapons, killing more than 12 civilians and injuring over 100. In retaliation, the Taliban claim they destroyed a Pakistani border outpost and seized tanks, while inflicting casualties among Pakistani troops. Pakistan’s military, for its part, confirmed losing 23 soldiers during the clashes. However, Pakistan also asserted that it repelled the Taliban attack, killed over 200 fighters associated with the Taliban or allied militant groups, and destroyed several militant camps. The fighting began after alleged Pakistani airstrikes in eastern Afghanistan and Kabul, which the Taliban condemned as violations of Afghan sovereignty. These airstrikes reportedly triggered the Taliban’s counterattacks. Alongside military losses, civilians living near the border were badly affected. Some were killed, many injured, and families near the villages have reportedly evacuated as mortar shelling and cross-fire endangered lives. Diplomatic efforts to de-escalate are underway. Saudi Arabia and Qatar reportedly intervened, calling for restraint, and some border crossings have been shut temporarily. The dispute over militant groups, especially Pakistan’s allegations that Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) operates from Afghan soil, continues to fuel mistrust. Afghanistan denies harboring militants, insisting it does not allow its territory to be used for attacks on its neighbours. This confrontation underscores a growing fault line in regional security. Observers warn that further escalation could destabilize the already volatile border region and put civilian populations at greater risk.