Overview: Tensions along the disputed Durand Line have erupted into an open conventional military confrontation between the Pakistan Armed Forces and the Afghan Taliban. Prompted by Pakistan’s ‘Operation Ghazab lil-Haq’ against alleged cross-border terrorism, this escalation threatens regional stability in a nuclear-sensitive zone and risks drawing in external powers.
Key Points:
- The conflict stems from the unresolved Durand Line dispute, which the Afghan Taliban historically refuses to recognize or allow to be fenced.
- Pakistan recently launched ‘Operation Ghazab lil-Haq’ to target Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) safe havens inside Afghanistan.
- The confrontation has rapidly shifted from border skirmishes to conventional warfare involving airstrikes, artillery, and tanks.
- Pakistani airstrikes have reportedly expanded deep into Afghan territory, targeting infrastructure near Kabul.
- The United Nations has raised alarms over the severe humanitarian impact on civilian transit centers like the Torkham crossing.
Source Link: The Hindu International News
MCQ: The Durand Line, frequently seen in the news, forms the contested international border between which two countries?
(A) India and China
(B) Pakistan and Iran
(C) Pakistan and Afghanistan
(D) Afghanistan and Iran
