Pakistan confirms 23 soldiers killed, claims over 200 Afghan forces neutralized

Pakistan says 23 of its troops, 200 on Afghan side killed in clashes (File image: AFP)

Pakistan DG ISPR has confirmed that 23 of its soldiers were killed in recent border clashes and, around 200 Afghan forces were killed in retaliation for what Islamabad described as “unprovoked” attacks, according to AFP.

"Precision fire and strikes, as well as physical raids, were directed against Taliban camps and posts (and) terrorist training facilities," the military said in a statement.

It said 23 of its own troops were killed and 29 wounded, while "more than...200 Taliban and affiliated terrorists have been neutralized".

The announcement follows Afghanistan’s earlier claim that approximately 58 Pakistani soldiers were killed during overnight operations along the border, citing repeated violations of Afghan territory and airspace.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has condemned the attacks Afghanistan’s “provocations” along the border, vowing a “strong and effective response.”

“We take great pride in the professional excellence of our armed forces,” Sharif said. “Under the bold leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, the Pakistan Army not only gave a firm and fitting response to Afghanistan’s aggression but also destroyed several of their posts, forcing retreat. There will be no compromise on Pakistan’s defence. Every act of aggression will be met with a strong and effective response,” he further added.

While Afghanistan's FM, who is on a state visit to India, accused Pakistan of escalating tensions along the border, asserting that Kabul’s response was an act of self-defense.

“Afghanistan will safeguard its borders and its national interest, and that is why it immediately retaliated to the escalation from Pakistan,” Muttaqi said.