By Innovation Times Foreign Affairs Desk
October 15, 2025 | Islamabad
The border crossings between Pakistan and Afghanistan remained closed for the third consecutive day as armed clashes between border forces continued near the Torkham and Chaman points, leaving trade routes paralyzed and thousands of travelers stranded.
According to security officials, the recent escalation of hostilities began after an exchange of gunfire between Pakistani and Afghan border personnel along the Durand Line. Both sides have blamed each other for initiating the violence, which erupted over what local sources describe as a “territorial misunderstanding” involving new fencing work near the frontier.
Witnesses in the Khyber region reported heavy firing and mortar shelling overnight, prompting authorities to suspend all civilian movement and close major border gates. The shutdown has severely disrupted cross-border commerce, affecting the transport of goods and fuel supplies critical to Afghanistan’s economy.
Local media in Kabul said Afghan border officials demanded an immediate reopening of the crossings, warning that the closures could worsen food and medicine shortages in several northern provinces. Pakistani authorities, however, insist that the border will remain closed until full security guarantees are provided.
Humanitarian organizations have raised concern over the growing number of Afghan families stranded on both sides, many of whom were attempting to cross for medical treatment, education, or business purposes.
Diplomatic sources confirmed that negotiations are underway between senior security officials of both countries, facilitated by mediators from Qatar, to prevent further escalation and reopen crossings safely.
The Pakistan-Afghanistan border, stretching over 2,600 kilometers, has long been a flashpoint for tensions involving security, trade, and militant infiltration. The current standoff underscores the fragile nature of relations between Islamabad and Kabul following months of political and military strain.
