Taliban Targets Pakistani Border Posts Along Durand Line, Hoists Flag on US Vehicles Left in 2021

The Taliban has launched a coordinated multi-front offensive against Pakistan’s Frontier Corps posts and infrastructure along the Durand Line, signaling a sharp escalation in cross-border tensions.

CNN-News18 obtained footage from the Dangam and Birkot sectors showing heavy artillery barrages hitting Pakistani positions, with Taliban forces advancing in American military vehicles abandoned in 2021, now flying the Islamic Emirate’s flag. Drone-supported strikes and shelling have been reported across Kunar and Nangarhar provinces, marking the most significant military escalation since 2021.

Coordinated Strikes Across Five Provinces

Taliban sources confirmed that forces launched simultaneous attacks from Helmand, Paktia, Kunar, Nangarhar, and Khost provinces, targeting Pakistani check posts in Kurram, Bajaur, and North Waziristan. Initial skirmishes around Guwi Sar, Spina Shaga, and Poline quickly escalated into continuous bombardment, with Afghan units using artillery, mortars, and light drones for precision strikes.

The offensive is claimed by the 201st Khalid bin Walid Army Corps of Afghanistan, reportedly in retaliation for Pakistan’s airstrikes on Kabul, Khost, and Nangarhar earlier this week. This marks one of the first direct military actions by the Taliban’s formal army against Pakistan since their takeover in 2021. The strikes focus on Frontier Corps posts, logistics hubs, and small barracks, while Taliban units attempt to infiltrate and neutralize key FC outposts along cross-border routes.

Taliban sources emphasized that the operation serves as a direct warning to Pakistan that any violation of Afghan sovereignty will now face organized military retaliation.

Rising Casualties

Clashes intensified along the Kurram–Paktia and Bajaur–Kunar sectors, with reports confirming two Pakistani soldiers killed and several others injured. Civilian casualties have also been reported, including one killed and another injured in Pakistan’s Kurram district (Teri area). The 201st Unit confirmed that operations continue across multiple sectors, with heavy exchanges of fire still ongoing.

Regional Implications

Indian intelligence sources told CNN-News18 that this is the first overt military confrontation between two Islamic regimes since 2021, highlighting vulnerabilities along the Durand Line. Analysts warn that the standoff could trigger proxy escalation, with New Delhi closely monitoring the situation amid concerns that Pakistan may attempt to destabilize Afghanistan as Kabul strengthens diplomatic ties with India.