Taliban–Pakistan Clashes Displace Thousands, Halt Border Trade

DID Press: Following intensified border clashes between the Taliban and Pakistani forces over the past two months, residents of Spin Boldak report civilian casualties, destroyed homes, and severe commercial losses. Traders say repeated attacks and prolonged road closures have disrupted Afghanistan–Pakistan trade, causing millions of dollars in damage to both sides.

Residents of Spin Boldak say frequent fighting in recent weeks has disrupted daily life and the economy of this key border district. According to them, the attacks two nights ago forced thousands of people to flee their homes and spend the night outdoors in the cold.

Hamdullah Fitrat, deputy spokesperson of the Taliban government, confirmed that five civilians — including one Taliban member — were killed and five others wounded in Pakistani attacks. Families of the victims say ordinary people are suffering the most and urge both countries to stop targeting residential areas.

Spin Boldak traders, pointing to heavy financial losses, say Pakistan’s continued attacks have effectively shut down cross-border commerce, leaving shipments stranded on both sides of the border.

In the aftermath of the recent clashes, tribal elders and religious scholars in Chaman held an emergency meeting, calling for an immediate end to hostilities. They emphasized that clashes must be kept away from populated areas to prevent further civilian harm.

Tensions between the Taliban and Pakistan are not new; the two sides have repeatedly clashed along the border in recent years. Despite mediation efforts from Qatar and Turkey, peace and ceasefire talks have produced no results, and violence continues — with civilians and border economies bearing the heaviest burden.