Calm returns to Chaman border after overnight Afghan shelling met with strong response

Peace returned on Saturday to the Chaman border between Pakistan and Afghanistan after a heavy exchange of fire overnight that left several civilians wounded on both sides.

According to reports, the violence erupted when Afghan forces shelled the Badani area, prompting a firm retaliation from Pakistani border troops. 

On the Afghan side, spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid accused Pakistan of launching the initial attack on Spin Boldak, claiming their forces simply responded to aggression.

Local officials reported that at least three civilians, including a woman, were treated at the district hospital in Chaman.

On the Afghan side, preliminary Afghan government statements put the number of wounded at five. 

The clash came amid a breakdown in diplomatic efforts between the two neighbors. After three rounds of talks in Istanbul failed to yield results, the two sides remain at odds over cross-border militancy and territorial security. 

Meanwhile, Pakistan reinforced its commitment to safeguard its territorial integrity and the safety of its citizens, warning that any further aggression would be met with a “befitting response.” 

With tensions high and both countries blaming the other for igniting the violence, many fear the risk of further flare-ups remains real.