Pakistan has claimed responsibility for killing over 200 Taliban fighters in a series of precision strikes along the contested Durand Line, marking one of the deadliest escalations in the region in recent years, The Times of India says. The Pakistani military reported that these operations targeted Taliban camps, training facilities, and support networks operating from Afghan territory. The strikes were described as "self-defence" actions in response to attacks by Taliban and Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) fighters.

The Pakistani foreign ministry highlighted actions taken against its neighbouring country, alleging that the Taliban plotted to facilitate a terrorist attack using border infrastructure.

In response to Pakistan’s claims of self-defence, Afghanistan's Taliban government claimed that 58 Pakistani soldiers were killed in overnight "retaliatory operations." Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for Afghanistan's Taliban government, said as cited by The Times.

The escalating violence has prompted Pakistan to close its borders, including the Torkham crossing, a vital trade and transit point. Pakistan also issued a stern warning to Kabul over its alleged support for militant activities.

The deteriorating relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have been further complicated by Afghanistan's recent diplomatic engagement with India. The Taliban expressed support for India's sovereignty over Jammu and Kashmir, prompting a sharp rebuke from Pakistan. In response to Pakistan’s outrage, The Times says that Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi warned that Afghanistan has alternative options should Pakistan not support regional peace efforts.