Islamabad: Tension along the Pakistan Afghanistan border continues to rise as fresh clashes and airstrikes have added to worries about a wider conflict in the region. In recent weeks both countries have accused each other of firing across the border and causing civilian and military casualties.

According to reports Afghan officials said Pakistani airstrikes in Khost province killed at least ten people including children. Pakistan has not commented on these specific deaths but has said its actions are aimed at militants linked to the Tehrik e Taliban Pakistan who it claims operate from Afghan soil. Afghanistan has repeatedly denied sheltering the group.

Earlier this month Pakistan closed key border points such as Torkham and Chaman after heavy exchanges of fire with Afghan forces. This came soon after a brief ceasefire that was arranged with the help of Qatar and Turkey but the agreement has not held for long.

Pakistan also carried out raids in its Kurram district near the frontier killing more than twenty militants in two operations. Officials described the fighters as members of extremist groups threatening Pakistan’s security.

The continuing clashes follow weeks of rising hostility. In October both sides suffered casualties in the most serious fighting since the Taliban returned to power in Kabul in 2021. Pakistan says it faces growing attacks from the TTP inside its territory and warns that it may take stronger military steps if the situation continues. Afghan authorities accuse Pakistan of violating their airspace and harming civilians.

Analysts warn that the conflict could intensify if both sides do not return to talks. Pakistan has a larger and better equipped military while Afghanistan relies heavily on fighters with guerrilla experience and difficult mountain terrain. The mix of cross border raids militant activity and strained diplomatic ties has created a dangerous situation for people living near the frontier.

Regional observers say the coming weeks will be important in deciding whether the two countries can move back to dialogue or slip into deeper conflict.