Uzbekistan Calls For Ceasefire After Afghanistan–Pakistan Border Clashes

Uzbekistan has voiced deep concern over the worsening situation along the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

«Uzbekistan calls on the parties to immediately cease fire, exercise maximum restraint, and prevent further escalation of tensions. We are convinced that all emerging disagreements must be resolved exclusively through peaceful, political, and diplomatic means, based on the principles of mutual respect, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of states,» the statement reads.

Clashes along the Afghan-Pakistani border began on February 26. Pakistani authorities said Afghan forces had opened fire on its border posts. Afghan officials, however, described their actions as retaliation for air strikes carried out on February 22, which Islamabad said targeted militant groups.

During the latest fighting, Pakistan’s air force reportedly carried out strikes in several areas, including Kabul and Kandahar, as well as other regions controlled by the Afghan authorities. According to Reuters, Afghan officials later said they were open to negotiations following the air attacks.

Islamabad said more than 270 militants from the Taliban had been killed in the clashes, while authorities in Kabul reported that 55 Pakistanis died during the fighting.

For years, Pakistan has accused the Afghan Taliban of sheltering members of Tehrik‑e‑Taliban Pakistan, also known as the TTP. Pakistani officials say the group’s leaders operate from Afghan territory and organise attacks from there, an allegation Kabul denies.

The United States has voiced support for Pakistan’s actions, accusing the Taliban authorities of failing to meet commitments to combat terrorism.

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