Islamabad. The latest military conflict that broke out near the Durand Line between Afghanistan and Pakistan has increased the concerns of the international community. Amidst the ongoing heavy shelling and attacks on the border, world powers have now urged both the countries to exercise restraint. Russia and China have clearly appealed to both the neighboring countries to end the conflict and resolve the differences through diplomatic means.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova issued an official statement highlighting the seriousness of the situation. He said reports of civilian and military casualties from both sides of the border were worrying. Russia has addressed Afghanistan and Pakistan as friendly countries and called for an immediate stop to this dangerous military confrontation. Russia believes that the solution to this crisis is possible only through political and diplomatic efforts at the negotiating table, not on the battlefield. On the other hand, keeping in mind the regional stability, China has also appealed to Pakistan and Afghanistan for immediate ceasefire and start mutual dialogue. Beijing has stressed that peace in the border areas is imperative for the security of not only these two countries, but the entire South Asia.
United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres has also expressed deep sorrow over this deteriorating situation. A statement issued by his spokesperson said that all parties should strictly follow international humanitarian law. Ensuring the safety of civilians should be a priority and any kind of territorial dispute should be resolved through diplomacy. The main reason behind the current tension is the dispute between Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the historic Durand Line. Pakistan has long been accusing the Taliban government of Afghanistan of giving shelter to the terrorists of the banned TTP. Pakistan claims that TTP is using Afghan soil to carry out attacks in Pakistan. On the other hand, Taliban government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said during a press conference in Kandahar that his administration has always been in favor of a peaceful solution. He clarified that they are still ready for talks, but will not compromise on the issue of sovereignty on the border.
The 2,611 km long Durand Line at the center of the dispute has a history that dates back to the 19th century. This line drawn by Sir Henry Mortimer Durand, the then Foreign Secretary of British India, is still in controversy. None of the governments of Afghanistan, including the current Taliban administration, recognize it as a formal international border. This line drawn 132 years ago still remains the main reason for bloody conflict and diplomatic deadlock between the two countries.
According to latest reports, Afghan forces have been reported to be waving white flags at some border posts, which is seen as a signal to stop firing or negotiate on the battlefield. However, the situation still remains delicate and the eyes of the international community are fixed on the next developments.
