UN Secretary-General Voices Concern Over Escalating Taliban-Pakistan Clashes

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern over escalating clashes between Taliban forces and Pakistan, warning that they risk regional instability.

In a statement, Guterres urged both sides to resolve disputes through dialogue and diplomacy, and to uphold international obligations, particularly the protection of civilians.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid claimed that Taliban forces killed 40 Pakistani soldiers and seized several border posts in recent fighting, describing it as a defensive response to cross-border aggression. Mujahid alleged Pakistani airstrikes targeted multiple Afghan provinces but reported no civilian casualties.

Pakistani officials stated their military operations responded to hostile actions from Afghan territory, targeting militant positions threatening Pakistan's security. Reports from Geo News indicated Pakistani forces inflicted significant casualties on Taliban fighters.

Guterres noted that mediation efforts by regional actors, including Qatar, Turkey and Saudi Arabia, should continue to prevent further escalation and restore stability.