28 Dec 2024 | 09:05 AM UTC
Afghanistan, Pakistan: Increased border tensions, conflict between Afghanistan and Pakistan likely to persist through mid-January /update 1
Border tensions, conflict between Afghanistan and Pakistan likely to persist through mid-January.
Cross-border tensions and armed conflict 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 killed at least 51 people. Fighting along the shared border in Khost and Paktia provinces left at least 22 people dead on Dec. 28. Taliban forces claim to have targeted several military installations inside Pakistan's territory. Pakistan retaliated with mortar fire.
Further cross-border actions, including airstrikes and ground attacks, in Afghanistan and Pakistan's border areas, are possible over the coming weeks. If clashes escalate, officials could announce movement restrictions, evacuations, or border closures near the Afghanistan and Pakistan border region. 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. Protests in response to the violence or movement restrictions are possible in both locations, including near border crossing points, diplomatic facilities, or government buildings.
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.
