Official statements from international organizations

19 Pakistani Soldiers, 3 Afghans Killed in Border Clashes with Taliban in Paktia and Khost

Dec 28, 2024, 09:16 AM

Heavy clashes erupted between Taliban forces and Pakistani border troops along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, specifically in the Dand-e-Patan district of Paktia province and Khost province, during the night of December 27-28, 2024. According to local sources, the fighting began around 1 AM and continued until 5 AM. Reports indicate that 19 Pakistani soldiers and three Afghan civilians were killed in the confrontations. The clashes involved attacks on multiple Pakistani border posts by Taliban forces, with some reports suggesting that Pakistani security forces repelled infiltration attempts by 20 to 25 militants in the Kurram and North Waziristan regions. The fighting included the use of heavy weaponry, and there are indications that six Afghan Taliban border posts were abandoned following retaliatory action by Pakistani forces. The situation has led to increased tensions along the Durand Line, with ongoing hostilities reported in the area.