Torkham Border Closure Enters Third Week Amid Rising Clashes

Islamabad/Kabul – March 6, 2025: Tensions have escalated between Pakistan and Afghanistan as heavy cross-border firing continues at the Torkham-Jalalabad border, with both sides engaging in the use of heavy weaponry. The clashes, which began after the Afghan Taliban (Interim Afghan Government – IAG) initiated construction in a disputed area, have led to the closure of the Torkham border since February 21, 2025. Now in its 14th consecutive day, the shutdown has brought trade to a halt and severely impacted civilian movement.

Also See: Torkham Tensions: Pakistan-Afghanistan Border Closure Enters Second Day

Border Clashes Escalate Amid Heavy Weaponry Use

Sources confirm that mortar shells landed in Pakistan’s Bacha Mena area, critically injuring a customs clearance agent. The Pakistani government has called the Taliban’s actions a deliberate provocation, emphasizing that multiple warnings had been issued against any unilateral construction in contested areas.

With trade and supply routes disrupted, the prolonged border closure is affecting thousands of traders and transporters. The standoff has further strained relations between the two neighbors, with both countries reinforcing military positions along the border.

Taliban’s Support for TTP Militants

The Afghan Taliban’s repeated border provocations coincide with intelligence reports revealing continued support for Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). A recent United Nations Security Council report highlights that Pakistan has suffered over 800 terrorist attacks in the past several months, many of which were launched from Afghan soil.

The 35th report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team submitted to the United Nations Security Council outlines that TTP has expanded its operations across Afghanistan, establishing new training centers in Kunar, Nangarhar, Khost, and Paktika (Barmal) provinces. The report also notes active collaboration between TTP and the Afghan Taliban, with shared manpower, logistics, and recruitment efforts.

Pakistan’s Counter-Terrorism Operations and Taliban Frustration

In response to the rising threat, Pakistan has intensified counter-terrorism operations, targeting TTP hideouts within its borders and along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border. Security analysts believe the Afghan Taliban’s increased border provocations are a direct reaction to Pakistan’s crackdown on militant groups operating under their protection.

Military officials state that Pakistan remains committed to neutralizing terrorist threats, ensuring border security, and preventing Afghanistan from becoming a safe haven for transnational terrorism. However, the Taliban’s continued construction in disputed territory and escalation of tensions suggest a strategic move to divert attention from its failure to rein in TTP and other militant factions.

Regional Security and Economic Fallout

Beyond military concerns, the prolonged border closure is severely affecting trade and economic stability. Torkham, one of the busiest border crossings, is a crucial link for Afghan imports, including essential goods such as food, medical supplies, and fuel. The disruption has led to a sharp increase in commodity prices in both countries, impacting local businesses and exacerbating Afghanistan’s economic crisis.

The Taliban’s prioritization of conflict over diplomacy has further damaged its international credibility, deepening Afghanistan’s isolation. Regional stakeholders have expressed concern over the Taliban’s continued support for militant groups, warning that Afghanistan risks turning into a hub for cross-border terrorism.

A Humanitarian and Security Crisis

With the border closure extending into its 14th day, thousands of stranded civilians, traders, and transporters face uncertainty. Pakistan has repeatedly urged the Afghan Taliban to cease provocative actions, emphasizing the importance of stability and regional cooperation.

As Pakistan strengthens its counter-terrorism response, analysts predict continued tensions at the border. While diplomatic channels remain open, the Afghan Taliban’s unwillingness to sever ties with militant factions threatens to prolong the conflict, with severe consequences for regional security.

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South Asia Times

Torkham Border Closure Enters Third Week Amid Rising Clashes