The escalating conflict along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border has drawn international attention, with Saudi Arabia emphasizing the need for de-escalation. Tensions flared following alleged firing by Afghan forces on multiple Pakistani border locations, leading to violent exchanges in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. The situation has brought Saudi Arabia’s recent defense pact with Pakistan, signed in September 2025, into focus. This pact signifies a strong commitment to collective defense, where an assault on one signatory is considered an attack on both.
Analysts view the defense agreement as a significant geopolitical development, with Saudi Arabia now acting as a strategic backer for Pakistan. Despite this, the Kingdom’s official response has been to call for calm and dialogue. The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement expressing concern and urging “self-restraint” to prevent further escalation. “The Kingdom affirms its support for all regional and international efforts aimed at promoting peace and stability,” the MOFA stated, underscoring its dedication to regional security and prosperity for both nations.
The Afghan Taliban government has asserted that its forces killed 58 Pakistani soldiers and captured several border posts in what it termed a “retaliatory and successful operation.” Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid claimed full control of border areas and attributed the action to Pakistan’s alleged violations of Afghan territory. The Afghan Defense Ministry reinforced this stance, warning of severe repercussions if Pakistan infringes on Afghan sovereignty again.
This border dispute is rooted in a long history of animosity, with Pakistan frequently accusing Afghanistan of providing sanctuary to the TTP, a militant group responsible for considerable violence within Pakistan. The alleged support from the Afghan Taliban for the TTP remains a critical point of contention.