25 Dec 2024 | 11:00 AM UTC
Afghanistan, Pakistan: Increased border tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan likely to persist through mid-January
Border tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan likely to persist through mid-January. Further clashes. retaliatory attacks possible.
Cross-border tensions along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border will likely persist through mid-January after Pakistan launched airstrikes in Afghanistan's Paktika province late Dec. 24, targeting a suspected Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) hideout in Barmal District. Taliban officials in Afghanistan claim the attack left 15 people dead, including civilians.
Further cross-border actions, including airstrikes, in Afghanistan and Pakistan's border areas are possible over the coming weeks. Officials could announce movement restrictions, evacuations or border closures in the Afghanistan and Pakistan border region if clashes escalate. The movement of military personnel and checkpoints will also likely disrupt travel along primary and secondary road routes. Fighting could impact utilities, including power and water supply.
Consider avoiding nonessential travel near the Afghanistan-Pakistan border until the situation stabilizes. Monitor local media and abide by security forces' directives. If incoming airstrikes or warning sirens sound in the general vicinity, report to the nearest bomb shelter and await further instructions from authorities. If there is no shelter nearby, stay indoors and away from windows and exterior walls. If possible, move to a ground floor or basement. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Reconfirm the status of transport services before departure. Review and update contingency plans.
Pakistan has accused the Afghan government of harboring non-state armed groups, especially the TTP, which it states carries out cross-border attacks targeting Pakistani security forces. Tensions escalated over this issue in March 2024 when Pakistan carried out similar airstrikes in Afghanistan's Paktika and Khost provinces.
