Heavy gunfire reported in Kabul, clashes between Afghan and Pakistani forces

Investing.com — On Sunday morning, explosions and heavy gunfire were reported in Kabul, as the ongoing military confrontation between Afghanistan and Pakistan entered its fourth day. Before sunrise, the sounds of fighting reached the capital, marking a rapid escalation of the conflict from border areas into the heart of the country, with the situation worsening significantly.

Taliban government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed the actions but described the explosions as defensive measures. He stated that Afghanistan’s air defense forces are responding to Pakistani aircraft spotted over the city and told residents “not to worry.”

Despite official reassurances, the conflict spreading to Kabul has raised concerns that small-scale clashes are evolving into a full-scale regional war.

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The current violence stems from a series of airstrikes launched by Pakistan earlier this week inside Afghanistan. Islamabad insists these airstrikes targeted “militant infrastructure,” describing them as surgical operations, but Kabul immediately condemned the move as a blatant violation of its sovereignty.

In response, Afghanistan launched retaliatory actions along a 1,600-mile-long border, resulting in what observers call the most intense fighting between the two countries in years.

Major losses reported in border regions

Both countries have reported significant casualties, including damage to military equipment, but independent verification remains difficult. The border area continues to be a chaotic scene of tit-for-tat strikes, with neither side showing signs of retreat.

The lack of clear on-the-ground data only heightens tensions, as both governments use official media to project strength while remaining silent through formal diplomatic channels.

Pakistan’s top leadership, including the Prime Minister’s Office and military officials, has notably refused to comment on reports of aircraft attacks over Kabul. Some analysts interpret this silence as a sign that the military is reassessing its stance, as the conflict has extended beyond tribal borders and reached the Afghan capital.

The international community is increasingly watchful of this 1,615-mile-long border. The initial localized counter-terrorism efforts have evolved into direct military confrontation between two sovereign states.

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